THE NEW Energise Me Awards 2017 are open now for nominations.

People across East Hampshire are being encouraged to nominate their unsung heroes and sporting talent to be in with a chance of winning one of 11 award categories.

With the focus on celebrating the achievements and dedication of our local heroes across different sports and activities, the awards will publicly reward and recognise commitment, performance and excellence.

The wide range of categories ensures recognition is given to elite performers, as well as teams, clubs and supporters of the local sporting community – the coaches, officials and volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help athletes and clubs succeed and to get people active.

Independent charity Energise Me is inviting nominations again with winners being announced at the awards ceremony on March 30 at Southampton Football Club. Nominations are free and open until January 31.

Online forms are quick and easy to fill in and can be accessed at: www.energiseme.org, where the criteria for each award can also be found.