A CHARITY based in York is urging people to nominate community projects which have had a great impact in their area.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, an independent development and social research charity, is supporting this year’s York Community Pride Awards once again.

The Foundation is sponsoring the Best Community Project category, which is for projects carried out by an informal, non-recognised voluntary group.

Claire Ainsley, director of communications at JRF, said: “The Joseph Rowntree Foundation has a long history of supporting strong communities in York, and I’m extremely proud that we’re sponsoring the Best Community Project at the Community Pride Awards this year.

“The awards are an excellent way of celebrating those who make a positive contribution within their communities.

“So if there’s a community project that’s making a valuable difference in your area please do take a moment to submit your nominations.”

The JRF aims to influence positive and lasting change by searching out the underlying causes of poverty and disadvantage, and identifying solutions.

It also does this by publishing and promoting evidence, and bringing people together to share ideas and by demonstrating solutions, including developing and running services, managing land and buildings, and supporting innovation.

The winner of Best Community Project last year was Dementia Forward for its important work supporting people living with dementia across the region.

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press in partnership with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden. All nominees must live in, or contribute to life in, the City of York Council area. Three finalists from each category will be invited to the awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October, when the winners will be revealed.

Entries can be submitted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN.

You can also nominate online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride. The closing date for entries is Friday, July 21.

You must include a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 with each nomination, and may include a picture, which unfortunately we will be unable to return.