Be quick to pick a hero (From Swindon Advertiser)

Deadline looms to make your nomination in the Pride of Swindon awards

8:00am Friday 4th January 2013 in News By Matthew Edwards

TIME is running out to nominate your unsung hero of the last year.

The Pride of Swindon Awards were launched in November last year as a way or recognising individuals who go the extra mile to help others in their community.

People have until the end of January to get their nominations in for this year’s award.

The awards started in 2008 and have unearthed some of the most deserving volunteers and fundraisers in the town.

Eunice Salmon, of Nine Elms, received an award last year for her fundraising for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

She is still raising funds and plans to climb Mount Kilimanjaro next year to bring in more money.

She said: “I felt shocked that somebody had put me forward because it is just something that I like to do.

“To be at the awards and hear so many unbelievable stories was a real privilege.”

Bonny Walsh, of Liden, was praised for her work with Swindon Limbless Association.

She said: “I was bowled over by the award.

“I really wasn’t expecting it, but I was very proud.”

This year the panel of judges are looking for nominations from those who work in the voluntary sector and give up their time and services to help others.

They could be someone who helps out a neighbour, a young person who is a role model or a teacher who is an inspiration – in fact anyone who goes that extra mile.

Swindon mayor Mick Bray is supporting this year’s Pride Of Swindon Awards.

He said: “Demonstrat-ing our support for the awards will draw the attention and inspire the younger generation to realise the importance of helping others.

“I hope the panel making the selections will have their work cut out finalising the list.”

To nominate someone for an award, click here http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/pride_of_ swindon_2013 – and in no more than 250 words, tell us why your are nominating them for an award.

Send your entry to: The Pride Of Swindon Awards, Mayor’s Office, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH or email prideofswindonawards@ swindon.gov.uk by February 1, 2013.