DUDLEY borough is bidding to honour the selfless volunteers who play such an important role in their community.

The Volunteer of the Year Awards pay tribute to people who give up their time to help others.

Now Dudley Council for Voluntary Service wants people to come forward with nominations - but they need to be quick as closing date is Friday August 22.

There are a number of categories up for grabs ranging from community action, children and families, health and wellbeing, sport, the environment and community safety.

There's also a prize for the young volunteer of the year - who must be under 25 - in addition to a special award for long service.

Individual volunteers or voluntary groups can be put forward providing they do not include any paid staff.

Eileen Fielding, from Dudley Volunteer Centre in Brierley Hill, has already been out with her loud hailer reminding shoppers and commuters about the nominations .

She said: "There's already been a good response but we would welcome more.

"We want to know whether there's a special volunteer or group that are making a real difference to their community.”

Nomination forms are available from any borough library, Dudley Council Plus or online from www.dudleycvs.org.uk – or people can call Dudley CVS on 01384 573381.