Public-spirited people across the borough will be recognised in Sutton’s Community Awards, with the window now open for residents to nominate their local heroes.

The yearly ceremony is organised by the council, and gives the public the chance to vote for community-minded residents who make a difference.

Voting is open, with more than 60 nominations already received, and will close on January 11 next year.

The annual awards will recognise volunteers, carers, charity workers, event organisers, and anyone else who has mucked in to help other people.

The categories include the Safer Borough Award, Improving Lives Award, Community Spirit Award, Business in the Community Award and the Outstanding Achievement Award.

Monica Tyler, chief executive of The Vine Project, was the 2013 Business in the Community Award winner.

She said: "For us, winning was a fantastic achievement. To have the acknowledgement by our community that we help and employ local people gave us a real boost. A year on, we are working with the Tutu Foundation to create a UK partnership.

"If you know someone who you think deserves to win then put them forward. It will mean the world to them."

A panel made up of representatives including councillors and the Sutton Guardian will pick a shortlist who will be invited to an awards ceremony in February when the winners will be announced

The winner of each category will receive a certificate and £100 in high street vouchers, and the two runners up in each category will also be given certificates.

People can vote for their local heroes by completing an online form, or by picking up a freepost form from local libraries or the council offices

You can also vote by email by sending your name, contact details, the catgeory you wish to vote in, and who you want to vote for and why, to: communityawards@sutton.gov.uk or call 020 8770 5145