AN INSPIRATIONAL life coach has urged people to get their nominations in for the Pride Of Swindon Awards 2017, citing the drive it gave him to prove himself even further.

Ricardo Defazio received numerous nominations for the 2016 awards from members of his bootcamp who wanted to show just how he had turned their lives around.

Last year’s judging panel was bowled over by the amount of support shown for him and named him as one of the winners during the awards ceremony held at the Steam Museum.

But, despite receiving his award from former mayor Andrew Bennett during the awards ceremony, he was not around to see his name unveiled during a special ceremony at the Central Library celebrating each of the winners – as he was already off on his next adventure.

“Receiving the Pride Of Swindon Award gave me the biggest drive of my life,” said Ricardo. “For the past four years I have been working and learning to empathise with others.

“I have worked with isolated and vulnerable elderly people, helping them simply be happy, by either taking them out or linking them with people who give up their time for them.

“I’ve worked with individuals and children with learning difficulties which has given me great satisfaction and reward on both parts.

“I’ve also been a van driver for Prospect, which was one of the hardest roles I’ve had. No one likes cancer, but to walk into people’s homes after their family have become victim to this terrible and horrible heart destroyer - to pick up their loved one’s things which are donated - is undoubtedly the hardest thing I have done.

“I was running bootcamps in and around the area. We as a team ran charity events, where we raised £2,100 in one year for local and small charities.”

Receiving the judges’ praise was just the start of his journey for Ricardo spent the majority of 2016 on a bike peddling his way around Europe, all in the name of good causes.

“To be appreciated and understood for what I do was simply incredible,” he said.

“And it gave me the right direction and insight to lead me on my next journey.”

“After receiving this I managed to ride my push bike across Europe twice covering 4,000 miles with people who never thought it was possible to cycle 50 miles.

“Without the award I might not have done all the things I have this year.

“So please vote for your local hero. Don’t be afraid to let someone be noticed and be part of their success story.”

All nominations for the 2017 awards will be considered by a panel of judges and those who are shortlisted will be invited to attend a glittering presentation event at STEAM on March 16 where they will be honoured with a special badge and certificate. They will also find their names honoured on a plaque in the Central Library which will be unveiled later in the year.

To nominate someone for an award download a form here by January 27 at noon.