THE search for south Wiltshire and west Hampshire's Local Heroes has begun.

We're in our 12th year of recognising and awarding the people within our community who make a real difference.

The Salisbury Journal and Spire FM want you to nominate someone who has gone above and beyond to help you or your organisation in the past year.

It could be a charity or fundraiser, a parent/guardian or a close neighbour.

Maybe you'd like to say thank you to a child who has shown courage during a tough time or a member of the emergency services or armed forces.

Look closely at the people around you and help us find the stars in our community.

The awards ceremony will take place on Sunday, October 12 at Leehurst Swan School.

The closing date will be announced soon.

To enter your nomination, email their details to editor@salisburyjournal.co.uk and put Local Heroes in the subject box.

Make sure you identify the award you are putting them forward for and give both yours and their contact details.

See below for a list of the awards and their sponsor:

Fundraiser of the Year sponsored by The Giles Brothers
An individual who has given their time generously to raise funds for charity or good cause.

Young Person of the Year Award - (16-24) sponsored by QinetiQ
Awarded to a young person who has demonstrated exceptional courage and maturity beyond their years.

Carer of the Year sponsored by Elite Care
Awarded to an individual who has made a difference and impact on the person/family member they are caring for.

Armed Forces Award
Awarded to an individual or team of people who have gone above and beyond their role in the Armed Forces be it land, sea or air.

Good Neighbour Award sponsored by The Body Lounge
Presented to a member of the local community who has gone out of their way to help a neighbour or neighbours.

Bravery Award
Awarded to someone who has shown outstanding bravery of a heroic nature be it for others in times of need or for themselves through illness.

Community Group
Awarded to a group of people who have made an outstanding contribution to the community they live or work in.

Foster Carer of the Year sponsored by Five Rivers
We are looking for a truly inspiring foster carer. Someone upbeat, resilient, caring and truly committed to making a difference in a child's life, no matter what. Do you know someone?

Medical Person of the Year sponsored by Wessex Care
A group or person who has demonstrated particular maturity in their work and has given up their time to help those less fortunate than themselves.

Emergency Services sponsored by Wessex Fire and Security 
A person or group that has contributed beyond the call of duty within fire, ambulance or police services.


There are still three categories available to sponsor. If you are interested call Dawn Nardiello on 07834 333504.