A CHARITY working with local voluntary organisations has teamed up with Ilkley Parish Council and Ilkley Round Table to launch a volunteer awards scheme, recognising the good work down by people in and around the town.

Keighley and Ilkley Community and Voluntary Action (KIVCA) is getting together with the two organisations for the Ilkley and District Community Volunteer Awards 2016.

The scheme will showcase the the hard work put in by volunteers from across the area to voluntary services and local organisations.

They are asking voluntary groups and members of the public to think about people who have gone the extra mile to make life better for those around them.

KIVCA’s Ilkley office manager, Mary Hamilton, said: "We are fortunate that so many people give so much unpaid time to improve the quality of life of others throughout the district. It is important to recognise their contribution to community life."

Ilkley Parish Council chairman, Councillor Brian Mann, hopes the award will help in some way to recognise the commitment and enthusiasm of volunteers helping to improve the quality of life of people throughout the Ilkley area, so they should receive the recognition they deserve.

Organisations are being asked to nominate volunteers in three categories: Community Involvement (25 and over) – for people who give time and effort for the benefit of others and who have helped to improve amenities and resources; Community Involvement (24 and under) – for young people making a contribution to their neighbourhood and promoting a positive image for young people across the area; and Encouraging Sporting Activity – for individuals or groups that have given unpaid time to coaching or organising sporting events or activities.

The scheme follows similar volunteer awards, which have seen people of all ages presented with accolades for their work in sports clubs, volunteer-run community services and helping with community activities.

The deadline for nominations is February 29. Awards will be presented during a ceremony at the Winter Garden in Ilkley on March 23.

Nomination forms are available from Mary Hamilton at KIVCA’s Ilkley office, Riddings Hall, Riddings Road, Ilkley LS29 9LU, e-mail ilkley@kivca.org.uk or call 01943 603348. Visit Kivca's kivca.org.uk website for more details.