Nominations sought for Pride of Bournemouth Awards

Launching the Pride of Bournemouth Awards: Pictured here Clare Hirst (left) and Debbie Clifton (right) of The Bournemouth 2026 Partnership with Ed Perkins of the Bournemouth Daily Echo.

Do you know someone with a heart of gold who has made an outstanding contribution in their community or displayed amazing bravery?

Nominations have been launched for this year’s Pride of Bournemouth Award and, as well as joining celebrity Martin Clunes at a special awards night, the winning nominees will take home an exclusive Wild in Art lion-cub.

Organiser Clare Hirst said: "It is wonderful that as a public art event showcasing the wonderful talent and diversity in our community, Pride of Bournemouth has also given its support to our annual hero awards. Reflecting courage, protection and leadership, lions are the perfect symbol for these awards.

"Our winners will not only take home the thanks and recognition of their community but they'll get to attend a very special event in aid of two amazing charities and will receive a very special lion sculpture."

Finalists will be invited to an awards night at Bournemouth Pavilion on September 18, which is part of the Pride of Bournemouth auction of lions in aid of Julia's House Hospice and Born Free Foundation.

The awards, organised by Bournemouth 2026 Partnership and backed by the Bournemouth Daily Echo, J.P. Morgan, Yellow Buses and BH Live, are seeking:

• Individuals or community groups who have shown commitment, enthusiasm and dedication to improve the lives of others (Heart of Gold and Heart of Gold Young Person Award)
• An individual who has provided opportunities for a diverse range of people to participate in arts and cultural activities (Arts and Music Hero Award)
• Someone who has put themselves at risk to help or save the life of another (Lion Heart Award)
• An individual or group who has made a positive difference to the environment in their local community (Go Green Hero Award)

All nominations will automatically be entered into The Pride of Bournemouth Award, which will be presented to an exceptional individual or group in recognition of their outstanding contribution to their community.

Entry forms must be submitted by July 25, 2011. They’re available to download at www.bournemouth2026.org.uk/pride-of-bournemouth-awards or you can request one by calling Clare on 01202 456849.