The hunt is on for the Pride of Swindon

Mayor Andrew Bennett officially launched the Pride of Swindon awards today and has called upon the people of the town to shine a light on those people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make Swindon a better place.

The awards will recognise volunteers who have given their time selflessly for years, as well as people who have displayed remarkable courage, those who have helped reduce crime in the town and those who have given unselfish service to sports clubs.

Extra-special neighbours and exemplary young people who have set an example to others in their community could also be considered for an award as well as inspiring teachers or health care professionals who have gone the extra mile.

He said: “Swindon is a very supportive town, I often get on my soapbox about this because you will always be able to find someone who can help you – hence the term pride.

“Swindon does a lot of things very well – and this is one of the best. I don’t think there is very much more I can add to that. I am very proud to launch the Pride of Swindon Awards 2016 and would encourage you all to go online and nominate the people in our community who deserve recognition.  And I look forward to some very interesting stories to come out of that.”

With the backing of Zurich, Intel, McDonald’s Swindon Advertiser, Nationwide, Positive Media Group, Excalibur and Swindon Borough Council those who are shortlisted will be invited to attend a glittering presentation event at Steam on March 17.

Pride of Swindon winners will be honoured with a special badge and their name honoured on a plaque in the Central Library.

Andy Tait of Intel said: “It is amazing that every year we get 80-100 applications coming in, each of which are people who have gone above and beyond what is expected of them.”

To nominate someone for a Pride award visit www.swindon.gov.uk/prideofswindon where you will find a nomination form. Nominators can submit up to 400 words outlining their reasons for their nomination. The closing date for entries is Friday, January 29.