Search begins for the 2011 Hillingdon local hero

Mar 29 2011 By Siba Matti

INSPIRATIONAL people in the community are once again being asked to step into the spotlight, as the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, together with Uxbridge College, launches the ninth Local Heroes awards.

Our annual competition, which begins on March 30, recognises the incredible bravery, commitment and dedication shown by unsung heroes across the borough, who have survived against the odds or put others' needs before their own.

Anyone who lives, works or volunteers in Hillingdon can be nominated in the five following categories: Outstanding Young Person; Star Carer; Courageous Citizen; Fabulous Fundraiser and Community Champion.

An overall Hero of Hillingdon award will be given to the category winner the judges feel is most deserving of the accolade.

So if you know someone who deserves credit for doing a good deed, nominate them now by filling in the form below or visiting our website, www.uxbridgegazette.co.uk/heroes.

The closing date for entries is Friday, May 27 at 5.30pm and the judging panel will make its decision shortly afterwards.

Short-listed nominees will be invited to a glittering gala awards evening at Hayes Community Campus in Coldharbour Lane, Hayes.

Category winners will receive a trophy and £200 cash, while the Hero of Hillingdon will win a further £500 and trophy. Runners up will each receive £50.

Former army medic Hamish McGregor was crowned the Hero of Hillingdon in 2009, after setting up the first ever Help for Heroes shop in Uxbridge, raising an impressive £25,000 for British Forces in just three days.

Mr McGregor, who served in Northern Ireland, was rendered speechless after scooping both the overall title and Fabulous Fundraiser. The father-of-one was also recognised for tirelessly working to help others, despite having to overcome a great deal of personal anguish.

A year before, Multiple Sclerosis sufferer, Nimira Patel was named Hero of Hillingdon, after voluntarily running Little Angels playgroup, at Harlington Baptist Church.

She was also praised for her efforts to support others in the community by offering a listening ear and giving helpful advice, in addition to taking care of other people's children.

Uxbridge College principal, Larraine Smith, said: "The annual Local Heroes competition offers a unique opportunity to acknowledge some of the amazing work that goes on in our community.

"There are so many people in Hillingdon quietly making an enormous difference to the lives of others, and it is a real privilege to find out more about them and give them some recognition."

Multimedia content manager of the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, Shujaul Azam, added: "It's always a great honour to celebrate the work of the selfless unsung heroes of our community. Once again we look forward to honouring those who've made a significant contribution in improving the lives of others. It's an inspiration to all to read the amazing stories of courage, caring, dedication and bravery. If you know of anyone that has beyond the cause let us know."

Categories and prizes - see page 2