UNSUNG heroes across Teesside can win a Cleveland Community Safety Award which are now open to nominations.

The 14 categories include neighbourhood police officer of the year, neighbourhood watch co-ordinator of the year, young community volunteer, community minded business and outstanding support to a victim.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland Barry Coppinger said: “The awards recognise the efforts of everyone involved in partnership work in our communities, and I would ask people to put nominations forward.

“This year we have included a new award of neighbourhood detective. This relatively new post which has brought in new people and additional skills to the team has proved a huge asset.

“These are the unsung heroes of our communities – the people that really make a difference.”

Cleveland chief constable Jacqui Cheer added: “Integrated neighbourhood policing is about working in partnership with other agencies and members of the community to resolve local issues. Since the first awards last year we have strengthened the neighbourhood teams by assigning detectives to work within them. I’m pleased that the awards recognise both teams and individuals who all contribute to keeping our communities safe.”

“We welcome this fantastic opportunity to celebrate the commitment and dedication of individuals who go the extra mile to ensure that residents can enjoy their homes and neighbourhoods”.

Nominations close on Monday, September 1 for the awards which will be hosted by Hartlepool College of Further Education on Wednesday, October 15.

People are asked to give their name, contact details, name of the nominated person and their reason for nomination.

They can be submitted in writing to Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland, Police Headquarters, Ladgate Lane, Middlesbrough, TS8 9EH. Deserving recipients can also be put forward online at cleveland.pcc.police.uk/Take-Part/Cleveland-Community-Safety-Awards-2014 or by emailing pcc@cleveland.pnn.police.uk