Nicola Anten was one of five people who put forward last year’s Education Champion Gemah Allen, a dance instructor at Artemis Studio in Bracknell, for an accolade.

She said she was delighted to see Gemah’s hard work rewarded and hoped more worthy winners will be named this year.

Mrs Anten, from Priestwood, said: “She inspired my children and a lot of other children to dance so I wanted her to be recognised for what she had done. I’m sure there are others like her who have helped out people around Bracknell.

“If there’s someone you know who is doing good and should be recognised then write or email. It doesn’t take a lot, just a few minutes and that person is then recognised.

“Gemah was very shocked when she won and it was great to see her so happy.” Another mum, Mikeala Jones, from Warfield, said Gemah had been an “inspiration” to her students.

“I’m sure there are lots of other people around Bracknell doing good things like Gemah. I would encourage people to nominate them,” she added.

Gemah, from Great Hollands, said the awards are a chance to show off the best of Bracknell. She said: “It was a lovely evening last year and everyone was super. I would say to anyone, if there is someone you think deserves nominating, do it.

“There are too many people who moan about Bracknell but people can make it better by supporting these things.” Nominations are open for this year’s awards, which are organised by the News, lead sponsors Bracknell Regeneration Partnership and other partners.

The awards are in their ninth year and categories include voluntary, education, business, sport and work.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, March 28, and judges will then make a shortlist for each category from the people put forward.

A shortlist of those nominated will be drawn up by judges and they and a guest will be invited to attend a presentation evening at Bracknell and Wokingham College on Friday, April 25.

Readers can nominate their heroes online at www.bracknellnews.co.uk/pride The categories are: - Young Community Volunteer - Adult Community Volunteer - Voluntary Group - My Hero - Retail Hero - Sporting Champion (adults) - Young Sporting Champion - Education Champion - Child of Courage - Good Citizen If your company or organisation would like to sponsor one of the categories, please contact Kaarina Barron on 0118 955 3341 or email kbarron@berksmedia.co.uk