People are once again being encouraged to nominate their favourite person in town, as the National Lottery hunts for this year's national heroes.

The National Lottery Awards – launched yesterday by former Eastenders star Jacqueline Jossa – annually search for the UK's top lottery-funded people and projects, celebrating the inspirational individuals and groups who do extraordinary things for their community.

With 5,000 nominations submitted last year, the National Lottery is hoping plenty more will be entered for 2021.

And as good causes throughout Workington have received more than £427,000 of funding in the past year, making all involved eligible for the award, there are countless people ready to be praised for all their hard work.

Actor and National Lottery Awards ambassador, Jacqueline Jossa, said: "I hope lots of people nominate their local heroes as they deserve to be celebrated, especially during these challenging times when many need the support more than ever.

“So much National Lottery funding goes to great causes and allows these local heroes to continue their inspirational work within our communities and it is thanks to National Lottery players that this can continue.”

Encompassing all aspects of National Lottery good causes funding, the 2021 National Lottery Awards will recognise outstanding individuals in culture, arts and film; heritage; sport; and community and charity.

A special Young Hero Award for someone under the age of 18 who has gone that extra mile in their organisation is also on offer.

Winners of each category will be chosen by a judging panel, made up of members of the National Lottery family and partners, and will receive a cash prize for their organisation of £3,000, and a coveted National Lottery Awards trophy.

Jonathan Tuchner, from the National Lottery, said: “Since 1994, the National Lottery has made a huge positive impact on life across the UK.

"Thanks to National Lottery players and the £30 million raised each week for good causes, thousands of organisations are making an incredible impact and difference in their local areas.

“The last 12 months have been extremely tough on us all. But as we hope for better days ahead, we are constantly astounded by the way ordinary people and projects responded to adversity with heroic yet simple acts of love, kindness and selflessness that will be long remembered.

“The National Lottery Awards seek to honour those who have stepped up and work tirelessly on behalf of others. We want to thank them and celebrate their incredible efforts.”

To make your nomination for this year’s National Lottery Awards, tweet @LottoGoodCauses with your suggestions, or complete an entry form at www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards.

Entries must be received by midnight on June 7, 2021.