Local heroes will get their moment in the spotlight tonight at the Pride in Medway gala night.

More than 70 people were put forward for the awards this year, the 12th time they have been held.

The nominees received their certificates during a presentation evening at the Corn Exchange in Rochester last month.

Ssince then judges have had the difficult task of whittling them down to a list of finalists.

They will be attending the gala dinner at the Universities at Medway’s Pilkington Building, Chatham Maritime.

Host for the evening will be Meridian TV presenter Sangeeta Bhabra, with the prizes presented by Paralympic medallist Sascha Kindred.

Swimmer Sascha, 35, has competed in five Paralympics, winning 12 medals, including six golds and a silver at London last year. He was made an OBE in 2009.

At the end of the evening, this year’s overall Pride in Medway winner will be named, following teenager Alec Martin (pictured above) who took the trophy in 2012. Alec, 15, has won hearts with the way he has raised money for the charities that have helped him during his battle with cancer.

Pride in Medway is supported by Medway Council, mhs homes, E.ON, Southern Water, the Medway Messenger and the University of Kent.