Our Wear1 Community Champions award scheme aims to recognise all of our unsung heroes.

Wearside and East Durham is brimming with people who make a contribution to the community but do not ask for recognition.

We want Echo readers to help us shout loud and proud and celebrate these shining stars for the difference they make in improving people’s lives across the region.

Community Champions live in every street in Wearside and are those who make things happen, and above all care for their neighbourhood and the people in it.

The award embodies everything Wear1 is about – celebrating Sunderland and making it better.

Nominees can be people of any age and any role, including carers, voluntary workers, community leaders and fund-raisers, and can be an inspiration in any sphere of Wearside and East Durham life, such as helping the elderly, children, minority groups, the ill or disadvantaged.

Community Champions will receive a pin badge and certificate, and be featured in the Echo, so it is up to you to nominate your own heroes – starting today.

Download your Wear1 Community Champions nomination form on our site or by writing to Ross Robertson at the Echo and nominating your champion. Ross can be emailed at ross.robertson@northeast-press.co.uk