DO YOU know an unsung hero?

It could be someone who spends countless hours caring for others. It could be someone who gives up their spare time to run a community group.

Maybe you know someone who shows immense personal bravery in difficult circumstances, or a worker who goes above and beyond the call of duty.

We know there are lots of people like this and we want our readers to nominate them for this year's Pride in Medway awards.

Last time, we received dozens of nominations which proved there are many fantastic people living in the Medway Towns.

Editor Bob Bounds, said: "Once again the Medway Messenger is delighted to be involved in running these awards which are a tremendous celebration of people's triumphs across the Towns.

"Each year they just get better and better, with more stories of bravery and selfless service to our communities. We would encourage readers to nominate people, especially the unsung heroes who deserve recognition and our thanks."

The overall Pride in Medway winner last year was Ben Mills who, while on his way home from work, pulled a man from a burning building.

His tale was just one of many stories of courage, dedication and perseverance against adversity that were heard on the finals night.

Other finalists included youngsters David, Craig and Danny Cooley, who showed courage when their grandmother suffered a stroke, staying with her until paramedics arrived; brave Alecia Yarlett, nine, who suffers from a rare genetic condition and Edwina Duffy, who cares for her husband who has severe Alzheimer's, and her son who is mentally and physically handicapped.

The Pride in Medway Awards were started eight years ago, and are sponsored by the Medway Messenger, mhs homes, the University of Kent and Medway Council.

There are eight categories for the awards, so if you now someone who has done or is consistently doing something to be proud of, pick a category, fill in the form and let us know right away.

A nomination form will also be printed each week in the Medway Messenger.

The winners will be announced at a gala

presentation in March, 2009. More details later.