THE unsung heroes of Ulverston are set to be celebrated once again - as the Heart of Ulverston Awards return for the fourth year.

The most anticipated evening in the town's calendar is back - and for one night only, the Coronation Hall will be transformed into a venue worthy of the Oscars.

Compere and local estate agent Ralph Spours will again welcome the select audience as food is served ahead of the main event.

This year there are 11 categories, all supported by local businesses and organisations. GSK, which has a major base in Ulverston is the headline sponsor for the event.

NOMINATE A COMMUNITY HERO HERE - IT ONLY TAKES TWO MINUTES

Evening Mail editor James Higgins, who will open the evening, said: "I get a tingle down my spine every time I think of awards evenings of years past.

"To be a part of something which is so positive and which recognises the good in society is a huge privilege.

"Plans are moving along nicely and I'm sure this year's event will be as special as those which have gone before.

"We do need people to nominate those worthy of an award, though. Please don't think you'll get round to it in a few days. Turn over the page and fill in the form today - or visit the Evening Mail's website and nominate someone online."

The awards ceremony will be held on Friday October 14.

The categories are: Young Citizen of the Year, sponsored by Stollers; Evironmental Volunteer of the Year; Community Group or Project of the Year sponsored by Furness Building Society; Sports Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Mercedes South Lakes; Employee of the Year, sponsored by Bender UK; Young Sports Performance of the Year sponsored by RFM Chartered Accountants; Courage Awards, sponsored by Ralph Spours; the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Ulverston Town Council, the Citizen of the Year award, sponsored by the Evening Mail, the Helping Hand award sponsored by St Mary's Hospice and the Teacher of the year award, sponsored by Ulverston Victoria High School.

NOMINATE A COMMUNITY HERO HERE - IT ONLY TAKES TWO MINUTES

Kirsty Mackenzie of Ulverston's Sun Inn has again agreed to supply drinks for the evening as part of the revamped venue's commitment to the town and its people.

Mr Spours, who will lead proceedings for the fourth year, said he was delighted to be involved once again.

He said: "It is always very heartwarming to hear about the achievements, hard work and commitment of Ulverstonians and extremely humbling to be involved on the night.

"I'm once again sponsoring the Courage Award category and it is a huge privilege to do so. The way people are able to triumph over adversity is truly inspiring."

The evening will start with a champagne reception for finalists and their special guests and will be followed by a three course meal.

Finalists will be announced in October.

NOMINATE A COMMUNITY HERO HERE - IT ONLY TAKES TWO MINUTES