DEVON County Council has launched its annual search for nominations for this year’s Community Transport Awards.

The awards, now in their 16th year, aim to recognise the outstanding service, commitment and contribution made by people involved in community transport in the county.

Nomination forms are now available from the County Council and must be submitted by the closing date of Monday, April 27.

Anyone working or volunteering in the community transport sector can be nominated by passengers, staff or volunteers.

There are a number of categories, with awards for Community Transport Volunteers, with one person being selected overall as the ‘Community Transport Volunteer of the Year’.

Paid staff can be nominated as Employee of the Year, which is kindly sponsored by GM Coachwork Ltd.

The Outstanding Lifetime Contribution award is open to staff and volunteers, and community transport groups can also be nominated in the category for Best Contribution to the Local Community.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “We know the high regard in which community transport is held and this annual event is a way to thank the staff, volunteers and groups who make such a positive difference to the lives of thousands of people in Devon.

"We’re keen to hear from as many people as possible to show our appreciation for our community transport heroes, and the awards are deserved recognition for their commitment and dedication.”

Successful nominees and their proposer will be invited to a civic reception in Exeter on Thursday, June 11.