THE search is on to find Dudley borough's unsung heroes with the launch of the 2018 Mayor’s Ball and Civic Awards.

Those who go above and beyond in their communities will be celebrated at the annual awards ceremony, which will be held in April.

There are six categories – all named after the borough’s greats – and Dudley Council is asking people to nominate those who they feel deserve recognition.

Nominees will compete for the Duncan Edwards award for sport, the Cedric Hardwicke award for arts, the Frank Foley award for community spirit, the Thomas Attwood award for education, the Mike Holder award for business and the William Shenstone award for environment.

There will also be a seventh trophy up for grabs, the Mayor’s Pride of Dudley Award, which will be decided by a public vote next month.

Councillor Dave Tyler, the borough’s first citizen, will choose four people or groups he feels have stood out to him during his civic engagements so far in his Mayoral year.

The public will then have the chance to vote online for the winner. Nominations for the other six categories – which will be decided by a judging panel – are open until March 5.

Cllr Tyler said: “There are people across the borough quietly working day after day to serve their communities without seeking any thanks or reward.

“These are people who have achieved great things, worked tirelessly to help and improve the lives of others or helped grow the economy and create jobs.

“I urge people to take five minutes to complete a nomination and tell us about their community heroes.

“We want to make sure that the hard work and dedication of these community stars is celebrated by giving them the recognition they deserve with one of our civic awards.”

The winners and runners-up will be presented with a bespoke piece of glass designed by local glass artist Alister Malcolm. They will also receive a certificate from the Mayor.

Every year, the ball raises thousands of pounds for the mayor’s chosen charities and award winners will have the chance to celebrate their achievements with distinguished guests.

People can nominate online at www.mayorofdudley.org.uk/civicawards or pick up a nomination form from libraries and leisure centres across the borough.

People can also purchase tickets for the ball, which will take place on April 20 at the Copthorne Hotel in Brierley Hill, on the civic awards website or by calling 01384 81561.