Volunteers and community stalwarts are in line for a prestigious award from the Mayor of Dudley.

People are being urged to nominate unsung heroes from the world of sport, art, community spirit, education, business and environment as part of the Mayor’s Ball and Civic Awards.

The awards are presented by the Mayor at his annual charity ball in March which raises thousands of pounds for worthy causes.

The public now have six weeks to nominate the people who go above and beyond in their communities for the awards, which are this year in association with A1 Rentals and Pro-tech Pavers.

The awards are all named after heroes of the borough, including the Duncan Edwards award for sport, sponsored by Nordic Timber Buildings, the Cedric Hardwicke award for arts sponsored by GMB Union and the William Shenstone award for environment, sponsored by Jessup Brothers.

Nominations for this year’s awards are now open and people will be able to put names forward until February 19. Councillor Mohammed Hanif, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“There are lots of people who serve their communities every day in a number of ways, without seeking thanks or reward. There are also people who are doing great things in business to help grow the economy and create jobs 

“As a community council we really see the value of this work in helping us to create thriving communities across the borough.

“We want to hear about these people to find out what makes them special and give them the recognition they deserve with one of our civic awards. I am very much looking forward to meeting them on the night.”

There is also a seventh trophy, the Mayor’s Pride of Dudley Award, which will be decided by a public vote next month. The Mayor will choose four people or groups he feels have stood out to him on his civic engagements so far in his Mayoral year.

The public will then have the chance to vote online for the winner. Nominations cannot be put forward for this particular award. A judging panel will decide the other six categories.

The winners and runners-up will be presented with their prize – a bespoke piece of glass designed by local glass artist Alister Malcolm and a certificate by the Mayor of Dudley at the Mayor’s Ball and Civic Awards at the Copthorne Hotel, Brierley Hill in March. The annual ball raises thousands of pounds for the Mayor’s chosen charities each year and award winners will have the chance to celebrate their achievements with distinguished guests.

You can nominate online at mayorofdudley.org.uk/civicawards or you can pick up a nomination form from libraries and leisure centres across the borough. People can also purchase tickets for the ball online  or by calling 01384 81561.