Great Big Thank You Awards - don't miss the chance to nominate your unsung heroes

Don't miss you chance to help a kind-hearted individual or community group get the pat on the back they deserve.

The Express & Star extended the deadline for nominations until Monday so if it’s a community hero or someone who always goes that extra mile to do what they can to help, we want to hear from you.

There are eight awards up for grabs in total and these are Ambassador of the Year, Community Champion(s), Fresh Start Award, Fundraiser of the Year, Leaner Award, Teacher of the Year, the Young Star Award and Volunteer of the Year.

The Ambassador of the Year award will go to a person who has done the most to promote their Black Country and Staffordshire roots within their chosen charity, team or hobby.

The Community Champion(s) award will recognise someone who has served or inspired others or performed in an exceptional way as they have given something back to their community, helping it to flourish.

The Fresh Start award will go to someone who whatever life has thrown at this individual, has not only survived but is now making a positive contribution to their local community in some way, however small.

The Fundraiser of the Year award is is not about the amount raised, but about the commitment involved. There are often personal reasons why individuals of all ages decide to put effort into raising money for a good cause.

The Learner of the Year award is for someone who has overcome obstacles and moved their life forward, an achiever who has learned new skills and developed their knowledge in their chosen field.

Teacher of the Year will be someone who inspires their pupils, encourages them to enjoy learning and does whatever they can to help them achieve their potential.

Volunteer of the Year will go to an individual who regularly puts others before themselves and is generous with their time to support an individual or group.

The Young Star award celebrates the young person, aged 16 or under, who has gone above and beyond in achieving their goals in the past 12 months.

Nominees will also have the opportunity to meet some of the most well-known faces of the region in a ceremony aimed exclusively at their achievements early next year.

To complete a nomination form for a selfless individual or group visit starthankyou.expressandstar.co.uk