EAST Lancashire residents are being urged to honour ‘ordinary’ people doing extraordinary things by nominating them for a new national award.

The British Citizen Awards (BCA) recognises exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact upon society.

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Launched in January this year, the inaugural BCA ceremony saw 28 people honoured at a prestigious ceremony hosted by Baroness Cox at the Palace of Westminster.

Nominations are currently being accepted for the next round of medal presentations, which will take place on July 9, again at the Palace of Westminster.

All BCA recipients receive a Medal of Honour, inscribed with the words ‘For the Good of the Country’.

Mike Faulkner, co-founder of the awards, said: “There are literally thousands of people across the UK making life better for others, and until now with no formal recognition open to them.

“This programme, which many see as an alternative honours system, has been created to enable every individual across the country to nominate someone who they feel deserves to be recognised.

“We have nothing but respect for the honours system but believe that a more accessible recognition programme is long overdue.”

Nominations from all corners of the UK, all cultural backgrounds and from all sectors of the community are being welcomed until the closing deadline on April 30.

Basil Preuveneers, co-found of the awards, said: “It is remarkable how many people are positively impacting the lives of those around them without reward or recognition.

“It’s fantastic that we can now celebrate them.”

Ribble Valley Borough Councillor Mary Robinson, said: “I always think that the people who do extraordinary things in the community do not do it to get praise.

“However, it is good for others to nominate them and to recognise their achievements because so many people do wonderful things for others.

“It’s good that these kind of awards exist because it gives people the chance to thank those who they know who give up their time to make a positive difference in their area.”

To nominate, email nominations@britishcitizenawards.co.uk to request a nomination form, or visit the website britishcitizenawards.co.uk for more.