A CHARITY foundation in York has urged the public to nominate their unsung heroes for The Press Community Pride Awards 2011.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation was set up in 1904 to help develop strong, inclusive communities, and help empower people across the country.

This year it will again sponsor the Best Community Project category at the eighth annual Community Pride Awards, also supported by City of York Council.

Julia Unwin, chief executive of the foundation, said: “We are very pleased to be supporting the Best Community Project category in the York Community Pride Awards. Every year we see so many fantastic groups of people committed to making positive contributions to their local communities.

“Many people and communities in York make a real difference to the places where they work and live, and these awards are a wonderful way of recognising that hard work and commitment.”

Last year’s winner of the Best Community Project was the Young Carer’s Revolution, a group of 12 to 20-year-olds in York who act as carers to members of their families.

The group created a DVD and advertising campaign to highlight the difficulties faced by young carers, and was praised by judges for their “outstanding” work in helping other young carers get the assistance and recognition they deserve.

Julia said: “Last year’s winners, the Young Carers Revolution, are a truly inspirational group of young people.

“Their actions really help to make a positive difference to so many people’s lives. We were so pleased they won the award and helped to raised awareness of such an important issue.”

To make a nomination, visit thepress.co.uk/pride and complete the form before Friday, July 22.

A supporting statement should be included with each nomination, and may include a photograph.

All nominees must live or be based in the City of York Council tax area, and the winners will be invited to the awards ceremony in October.