The nominations for the GoCardless JustGiving Awards have opened, giving fundraisers across Cumbria the chance to gain recognition for their charitable endeavours.

These awards celebrate individuals who have accomplished great feats for charities all over the globe.

Last year, two remarkable Cumbrians, Gabriel Clark, 13, and Gary McKee, 54, won awards for their outstanding efforts.

Gabriel's wooden bowls project won him the title of Teen Fundraiser of the Year.

His initiative attracted the attention of celebrities like Stephen Fry and Sophie Ellis-Bextor and raised more than £278,000 for Save the Children.

Reflecting on his award, Gabriel said: "I never expected to be named a winner at last year's JustGiving Awards when I set about my challenge.

"I want to thank the entire community for helping me raise much needed money and awareness for Save the Children."

Mr McKee, dubbed the 'Marathon Man', won Endurance Fundraiser of the Year after raising more than £1.1m for charity.

He completed 365 marathons in 365 days in a bid to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and Hospice at Home West Cumbria.

More than half a million fundraisers across the world are eligible for nomination in this twelfth annual event held by JustGiving and sponsored by bank payments company, GoCardless.

Nominations for the awards are open until April 11.

Following the nomination period, the 24 finalists will be chosen by a panel of judges, with the winners being decided by public vote.

On September 18, the winners will be presented with their trophies at London’s Roundhouse.

Pascale Harvie, president and general manager of JustGiving said: "Expressing the remarkable efforts of our fundraisers is challenging.

"Their dedication to raising incredible sums of money in order to help others is astounding and it is our honour to shine a spotlight on their outstanding achievements."

Pat Phelan, managing director UK&I and chief customer officer at GoCardless, said: “JustGiving fundraisers are some of the most amazing people, and hearing their stories makes me feel both inspired and incredibly humbled.

“The GoCardless JustGiving Awards are a simple way to say ‘thank you’ to these selfless individuals and celebrate their contributions to the causes that are close to their heart."

To nominate a fundraiser, visit https://page.justgiving.com/justgiving-awards-nominations.