EVERY day a dedicated army of more than 10,000 doctors, nurses and support staff work tirelessly to ensure the health and well-being of East Lancashire's 500,000 residents.

And leading health officials were today urging members of the public to highlight the outstanding achievements of health workers who they feel have gone beyond the call of duty to help patients .

Our third Pride of East Lancashire Award is the accolade of Outstanding Vocational Worker recognising the men and women in East Lancashire who go that extra mile and excel in their workplace.

Christine Kirk, chairman of East Lancashire Hospitals Trust, which employs 6,500 doctors, nurses and auxiliary staff across the district, said the awards were a wonderful way for patients and the community to say 'thank you' to the dedicated staff who work at hospitals.

She said: "We have an army of people who really make a difference to the lives of people in East Lancashire.

"This is an absolutely perfect opportunity to thank them and recognise all they do on a day-to-day basis.

"It's not just about doctors and nurses though. All the people who work to support them deserve recognition too."

Kath Galaska, director of service development for Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Primary Care Trust said: "We are very proud of our many vocational workers who, through their dedication and hard work, play a significant part in improving the health of our local communities in East Lancashire."

This award, sponsored by Fraser Eagle, gives you the chance to nominate a colleague, relative or friend who takes the time to put in that extra effort.

Perhaps you were particularly impressed with the standard of care and sympathy shown to you by a doctor or nurse at a difficult time for you, a member of your family or friend.

Or it could be a GP or health visitor who is always on hand with a sympathetic ear.

Or maybe you work in the NHS and know someone who has put in a lot of their own time to develop a particular project for the people locally which benefits their health.

Nominations could also include members of the emergency services, men and women who serve in the armed forces, people who work in the community - anyone who goes that extra mile to benefit others.

Teachers, ministers of religion, search and rescue personnel, bus drivers, milkmen and lollipop ladies could all be likely candidates.

The winner of this award will receive a £2,000 holiday and £1,000 cash. This will be presented at a glittering awards night at King George's Hall, Blackburn on November 22. The winner and two runners-up will also receive trophies.

All nominations for all 11 Pride of East Lancashire awards must be received by September 30.