Asbestos timebomb campaigner Paul Cooper could be in line for recognition for his work after being nominated for one of our Community Pride awards.

Paul's work for York Carriageworks employees suffering from asbestos-related diseases began when he was a union chairman at the Holgate Road factory.

Scores of former workers have since fallen prey to illnesses such as the cancer mesothelioma, and the retired coach builder is still working to support bereaved families claim compensation and campaign for better treatment.

Now his former work colleague Paul Grant has nominated him for a Volunteer Of The Year award.

Mr Grant said in his supporting statement: "Paul has, since 1978, conducted without any personal or political gain, a fight on behalf of fellow friends and workmates who have contracted asbestos-related illnesses.

"I feel a bit of appreciation for what he has done for so many is long overdue."

Campaigner Paul, now branch secretary of the local Transport and General Workers' Union, said he was "very happy and very grateful" to be named.

He began his campaign after the death of a colleague in the 1970s, compiling a detailed register of York Carriageworks employees to die of asbestos-related illnesses in order to monitor how the problem was spreading.

Last year in York the "timebomb" claimed eight deaths - thought to be a record.

Paul, 62, of Acomb, said not enough had changed since he first started his campaign nearly 30 years ago.

He said: "It concerns me a great deal that we don't seem to have made any progress at all since the 1970s when I first started seeing these deaths. In my view, the compensation levels for asbestos-related deaths are wholly inadequate."

We are on the hunt for York's community heroes - people who work unstintingly for the good of those around them. We also want to hear about community groups, school projects and businesses who offer outstanding customer care.

To nominate your heroes, fill in the entry form on this page, including the category for which you are entering, and remembering to give reasons on no more than two sides of A4.

Our judges will select three finalists in each category, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on October 20.

We still need sponsors for our awards. For more information on sponsoring an award category, phone Nigel Briggs at the Evening Press, on 01904 567168, or email nigel.briggs@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 10:21 Thursday, June 23, 2005