Before the pandemic, people may not have known much about their local community groups and parish councils, but their work has proved vital connecting neighbours during lockdown.

From offering befriending services, organising volunteers, and putting on socially distanced events, their efforts are now being recognised in a new scheme.

The Compassionate Community Awards 2020, a partnership between the Heart of Kent Hospice and Maidstone Borough Council (MBC), has created a category specifically for communities that fostered spirits during uncertain times.

Alison Broom, chief executive at MBC, said she hopes people will nominate those who went the extra mile.

She added: “Parishes and community groups have been outstanding in matching people with needs to people who can help.

“They came up with all sorts of different solutions to get round problems and we want to hear about those.

“One even set up a food bank and now they want to continue that as Covid-19 diminishes.

“Others managed to organise celebrations on VE Day making it a really special day.”

Backed by the Kent Messenger, six prizes are up for grabs.

Other categories are for compassion shown in a business or workplace ; in a care or residential home ; in a school or by a teacher ; by a volunteer or a neighbour ; or demonstrated by a young person .

Nominees must be in the borough of Maidstone or nearby.

Click here to nominate someone or email compassionateawards@maidstone.gov.uk by 5pm on Friday, September 25.

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