Search is on for the Citizen of the Year

The often unsung and unrecognised people who give unselfishly to others, will be honoured in an award ceremony at the Assembly, Leamington on April 1 during the biggest social event of 2011.

The competition to find the individual, who has done most to brighten up the lives of people in our community, will run for six weeks in the Courier/Weekly News. If you want to put forward a friend or colleague for the award, send a nomination to the paper of no more than 150 words.

The idea behind the campaign is that the contribution made by these volunteers will produce a happier, more optimistic frame of mind in the rest of us during this tough period of recession. Their stories will encourage us to take a more positive view of the future in South Warwickshire

The Brakes Trust is behind this initiative. “We are looking for those people who we all rely on, who work behind the scenes, to make life comfortable and more enjoyable for others,” said Peter Bowen, vice-chairman of The Brakes Trust.

“They are the volunteers who do the unenviable or difficult tasks, and who are so important in making things happen when we are struggling to get through the week.”

Courier/Weekly News editor Chris Lillington said: “We are delighted to lend our support to this fantastic initiative. There are so many people out there, especially in these tough economic times, who unselfishly give their time and efforts to help others and it is only right they are recognised and honoured by the community in which they live.

“If you know of someone who goes that extra mile then please nominate them.”

Nominations for Citizen of the Year should have Coty marked as the subject and contain the name, address, and phone number of the sponsor and be sent to [email protected]. Otherwise nominations can delivered to the offices at 32 Hamilton Terrace, Leamington, CV32 4LY.

The charity to benefit from the night will be Help for Heroes. Captain Elizabeth Murray will attend and represent service personnel. All those associated with the event have given their time and services free. This effort is reflected in the affordable ticket price of only £10 per person

The plan is that it will be a very special night for one person. In addition to the award ceremony, there will be four live acts, a buffet and free entrance to the following Cortina nights, so here is an opportunity for everyone to enjoy themselves while raising money for a good cause.

Tickets are available from Courier offices, The Assembly, and Leamington FC Clubhouse and also online