Ards and North Down Civic Awards Open

dn_screenDo you know someone who lives or works in the Ards and North Down area that deserves recognition?

The Ards and North Down Civic Awards are now open for entries and aim to recognise those people who are making an exceptional contribution to civic life in our borough.

The first Ards and North Down Civic Awards, which are organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, took place last year (2016) with 43 entries received.

Jo Scott from Millisle was amongst those that received an award at last year’s ceremony. It was granted for Voluntary Community Work. Jo is the Secretary of Millsile Youth Forum and a committee member of Millisle and District Community Association and Millisle Steering Group. From helping develop a Village Plan to organising community events, such as the ‘Big Lunch’, which brings young people and older members of the community together, Jo works tirelessly to make her area a better place to live.

There are five categories for nominations:

*  Service in the field of voluntary community work;

*  Humanitarian services;

*  Young person of the year awards;

*  Service to the Arts, Culture or Heritage;

*  Service to the Environment.

The Mayor will make an additional special award to an individual, recognising their outstanding service or special qualities. The Mayor’s Special Award is not open to nominations.

Nominations can be made online at:

www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/civic-awards

where you can find more detail on the criteria for each award category. Alternatively, you can collect an awards pack from the Town Hall in Bangor or the council offices at Church Street in Newtownards.

The closing date for entries is 28 February 2017, but don’t delay in making your nomination. This is your chance to say thank you and give the people who make a difference in your community the recognition they deserve.

The winners will receive their awards from the Mayor at a gala dinner in May 2017.

For more information about the Ards and North Down Civic Awards, or to download an application form, go to:

www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/civic-awards

or call 0300 013 3333.