TIME is ticking for people to get their nominations in for this year's Pride of Swindon Awards.

Less than a week remains for people to shine a light on the town's unsung heroes for the awards' tenth anniversary this spring.

They 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.

The 2017 awards celebrated a number of individuals and groups for giving Swindon a reason to be proud of itself. RunVEMBER champion Alan Butler was honoured for his efforts to unite and inspire runners of all abilities to raise money for Threshold Housing Link.

Clare Stowe was named as an award winner for her tireless work for charities and community groups over many years, despite suffering from chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia endometriosis. She plays an active role in the Swindon Down’s Syndrome group, at least two local churches, and was instrumental in setting up a community café and fought for support and funding for Living Options a group for vulnerable people.

Putting in nine years of service to Christmas Care Shelter as catering manager saw Noreen Vitale presented with an award, for ensuring no-one has to spend Christmas on the streets.

Caroline Watson honoured, after a member of the Walcot community highlighted her efforts to carry out housework, shopping and even DIY for her friends in need.

More than 36 years of service to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust saw Lakeside resident Kathleen Wyatt honoured for inspiring the next generation of conservationists, with the trust estimating her to have put in more than 9,000 hours of her own time.

Joan White’s 55 years with Pinehurst Netball Club – first as a player, and now as a coach - saw her receive an award, with the judges impressed with her extensive fundraising activities for the likes of Brighter Futures and Prospect Hospice. Helping people understand the complex world of benefits saw Roy Dowling take an award for his work with Swindon Carer’s Centre as a benefits advisor.

Inspirational Oscar Moulding was also named as a winner for encouraging his fellow-classmates to help him fundraise to send his old wheelchair to Bosnia for his friend Sophija, who - like him – lives with muscular dystrophy.

The former divisional commander of Swindon’s firefighters John Popowicz also found himself named a winner after putting in more than three decades-worth of service. And inspirational dance school owner Pat Bennett took an award for putting in 60 years of service at the self-founded Estelle School of Dance, despite being overlooked by the English National Ballet for being too short.

People have until Friday, January 26, to submit their nominations by visiting www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/pride_hero