The BBC 'Make a Difference' awards are now open.

Rutland residents can nominate their friends, family, neighbours and peers for this year's "Make a Difference' awards, hosted by the BBC to celebrate those who are going above and beyond within the local community.

These awards offer local people the chance to say 'thank you' and recognised people (and animals) who make life better where you live.

The awards include:

Volunteer Award

Awarded to an individual who makes a notable difference to their community by giving their time voluntarily to help others.

Community Award

The Morning Live Make a Difference Community Award is awarded to an individual or group of people who have helped to genuinely change the lives of others within their community.

Fundraiser Award

Awarded to an individual or group of people who have gone the extra mile to raise funds for a good cause.

Great Neighbour Award

Awarded to an individual who helps to make the neighbourhood a better place to live or work, either on a regular basis or through a single act of kindness.

Carer Award

Awarded to someone who improves the life of an individual or group of people through their helpfulness, compassion and support.

Bravery Award

Awarded to an individual or group of people who has shown outstanding courage, defiance and duty in the face of perceived danger, fear or difficulty.

The Green Award

Awarded to an individual or group of people who help to make where we live more environmentally friendly and better for nature.

This year, the team have also introduced a new award recognising local animals - of which Rutland has many!

The Animal Award

Awarded to an animal that improves the life of an individual or group of people. Or, a person or group of people working with animals to improve animal welfare.

You can nominate anyone of any age, however you must be aged 18 or over to submit an entry.

Visit the awards page to read more about each category, view nomination tips or hear from previous finalists.

The awards close on Sunday 10 March 2024 at 11pm. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and awards will be given in each category, across each local BBC radio station. Click here for full award rules and our privacy notice.

Follow the latest on the awards on social media using the hashtag #BBCMakeADifference.