COMMUNITY groups can make a huge different to the lives of people living in the area.

One such organisation is The Carleton Community Umbrella, a not-for-profit group formed in 2010 to support local activities.

It organises a series of year-round events which attract crowds of more than 400 people, including a duck race, a gala and sport weekend, a bonfire and fireworks display, a Yuletide carol service and a community Big Breakfast every bank holiday. It also raises money for other village groups.

Last year, its efforts were recognised, winning the community group section of the Craven Community Champion awards, which are run by Craven District Council in association with the Craven Herald.

Now the search is on to find this year's winning community group.

To be eligible, groups should attract and encourage new members to get involved in helping others within the community; make themselves welcoming and accessible to everyone in the community; and make a positive difference to and improve the well-being of a community.

The community group award is sponsored by Keelham Farm Shop, a Yorkshire business for over 40 years that has recently opened its second shop in Skipton.

Victoria Robertshaw, co-owner of Keelham Farm Shop, said: “This award is close to our hearts at Keelham Farm Shop as our team has a strong tradition of giving our time and resources to help with community work, focusing on schemes associated with young people, healthy eating and the environment.

“We’ve received such a warm welcome in Skipton and we look forward to building further links with many of the fantastic local groups who make a real difference in the town. We’re delighted to support this award which recognises those that go above and beyond to help the community in which they live, work and play.”

Nomination forms are available on the council website cravendc.gov.uk/communitychampions or pick one up from any local participating shop or service, library or doctors surgery.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, September 4, and the winners will be announced on Thursday, October 29, 2 at an awards ceremony to be hosted by the Coniston Hotel and Country Estate at Coniston Cold.

Everyone who has been shortlisted will be invited to attend.