IF you know a sporting hero who gives up their time to help young people, or someone who improves the health and wellbeing of people, then nominate them for a Craven Community Champion Award.

The sport and recreation gong - part of Craven District Council’s seventh annual Community Champion Awards, supported by the Craven Herald - recognises and celebrates those who have made an outstanding contribution to amateur sport or physical activity in Craven.

It might be someone who is working hard to provide tennis opportunities, or working with schools to inspire the next generation of cyclists.

The judging panel will be looking for people who are motivated and who have inspired others to participate in physical activity; who have helped to make physical activity more accessible to everyone in their community, and who have helped to promote excellence in their field of activity.

Judges will also look for those who have made a positive difference to improving the well-being of residents, and who have worked creatively to make the most of the resources available to them.

Skipton based Principle Healthcare Group, one of the UK’s leading producers of vitamins, minerals and supplements, is sponsoring the award this year.

A company spokesman said: “Principle Healthcare are passionate about innovation and working with the local community. We are proud to sponsor the Sport and Recreation Award in recognition of the all the great sporting and recreation activities that are going on across our community.

“We want to champion the exceptional work of those who have significantly benefitted their communities through their contribution to amateur sport, play or physical activity within the Craven district.”

Last year’s winner of the Sport and Recreation Award was Anita Hoggarth, who coaches the Skipton Juniors U12 Girls Football team.

Anita set up the first Skipton Girls team, is Club Mentor for the U11 teams who have young leaders, and is in charge of the club’s fundraising. She has also coached children of all abilities at Greatwood School in football for more than 10 years, mainly in her own time.

Nomination forms are available on Craven District Council’s website: cravendc.gov.uk/communitychampions or from participating shop or service, library or doctors surgery.

Nominations need to be made by November 29. The winners will be announced on February 21 at the awards ceremony to be hosted by the Coniston Hotel.Everyone who has been shortlisted to receive an award will be invited to attend.