Following a break last year because of the pandemic we're delighted to announce the Wards Children's Awards are returning for 2021 to recognise outstanding individuals and organisations in Kent.

And after a difficult year for everyone, we're extremely hopeful that this year's collection of nominations will tell us stories from across the county of bravery, determination, outstanding care and dedication.

The Children's Awards recognise the efforts and achievements of courageous children, their families and the charities and individuals who work so hard to support them.

Run by estate agents Wards and supported by the KM Group and the Kent Community Foundation, the event celebrates Kent and Medway's lion hearted children, all that they overcome and the incredible help they receive from organisations, charities and teams in Kent and Medway.

Amongst the winners in 2019 was double amputee Tony Hudgell. The inspirational schoolboy, from Kings Hill, was just 41 days old when he suffered an horrific assault at the hands of his birth parents, which led to him losing both his legs. The pair were later jailed.

The courageous youngster, who has since been adopted by loving parents Mark and Paula Hudgell, was awarded a Children's Award in the Triumph Over Adversity category.

This huge event begins in the spring with a nomination period - during which we encourage readers, families, schools, sports clubs and charities to tell us about individuals or groups that they know who are deserving of an award in one of the many varied categories looking for nominations.

Once all of the nominations have been collected later this summer, they will be taken to a judging panel which will begin the difficult process of sifting through all of the information we have received before speaking in greater depth to families and organisations in the search of final winners in each category.

The event will then culminate with a glittering ceremony - with children and their families at the heart of the event - where entertainers, fancy dress costumes, lunch, speeches and prize presentations make it a day to remember forever.

If the country's move out of lockdown goes to plan this year, organisers hope to be able to hold this wonderful event in person in the autumn.

But should that not be possible because of restrictions surrounding coronavirus, a virtual awards ceremony will be held instead to ensure that everyone who has won an award receives the recognition they deserve.

There are seven categories looking for nominations this year. You can read all the details of those and how to nominate someone you know at www.kentonline.co.uk/wardsawards

Read more news from across Kent here.

For more family-related news visit www.mykentfamily.co.uk