RESIDENTS are being urged to vote for their local heroes ahead of this year's Civic Awards - with new categories to look out for.

There are a number of new categories recognising the different ways in which the Thurrock's community works to make the borough a better place.

These include Business in the Community, sponsored by the Essex Chamber of Commerce; Community Together, sponsored by intu Lakeside; and Supporting Local Communities, sponsored by Mears Ltd.

Cllr Lynn Worrall, chairman of the Civic Awards panel and portfolio holder for communities, said: “Thurrock is a remarkable place where people come together for no other reason than to help others – whether it is charities, large or small; voluntary groups, businesses or individuals.

“Thurrock is overflowing with people and organisations which take that little extra step and this is our chance to recognise that and to say: Thank you.”

Nemendra Singh, regional director, Mears Group, said: “We recognise the need to support local communities, and run our own Serving our communities programme which made choosing this category an easy choice.

“Our work within Thurrock in the community, through the local Trade School is one area where we demonstrate this.

“The school provides local young people the chance to get a basic understanding of the construction industry, and they pass out with basic skills and a tool kit.”

Denise Rossiter, Chief Executive at Essex Chambers of Commerce and Industry, added: “The Essex Chambers chose to open an office in Thurrock because we recognised there was a vibrant business community that was not just serving local needs but reaching out to the rest of the world.

“This award will enable such businesses to gain the wider recognition across the borough that they rightfully deserve and we are pleased to be associated with it.”

To make a nomination, complete the online form at thurrock.gov.uk/civicawards or pick up a form at any library in the borough.

The deadline for making a nomination is 31 January.