NORFOLK'S recycling champions are seeking local heroes to be part of a special awards scheme.The Norfolk Waste Partnership - made up of local authorities tasked with encouraging people to reduce, reuse and recycle waste - is inviting nominations for the county's annual waste awards.

NORFOLK'S recycling champions are seeking local heroes to be part of a special awards scheme.

The Norfolk Waste Partnership - made up of local authorities tasked with encouraging people to reduce, reuse and recycle waste - is inviting nominations for the county's annual waste awards.

Barry Coleman, chairman of the partnership and Yarmouth council leader, said: “These awards are about recognising and celebrating waste reduction and recycling-related achievements that together help keep waste out of landfill sites in Norfolk.

“We all have a responsibility to reduce the amount of waste we create, and this is an excellent opportunity to acknowledge people who make an extra contribution and often inspire others to do more.”

Entries are invited from community groups, social enterprises, businesses and individuals in Norfolk who have made a difference by successfully tackling Norfolk's waste over the past year.

Prizes include “green” shopping vouchers, cash for charity and a free two day break at an eco-lodge on the north Norfolk coast.

Mark Henderson, Norfolk County Council's waste partnership and strategy officer, said: “We're now in our sixth year, and each year we have seen an increasing number and variety of entries.

“We won't just be looking for activities that tackle large amounts of waste - even small-scale activities can make a difference and encourage more people to do their bit.”

Last year's winners included Trevor Lynn, a Sainsbury's manager, who helped to redistribute fresh produce that would have otherwise gone to waste to local charities.

The community sector winner was GYWoodstock, which helps people with mental health problems to gain new skills while making waste wood into saleable products, such as bird tables.

The deadline for completed entries is next Monday, December 8, and nominations can be made online at www.norfolk.gov.uk/nwpawards or by calling 0844 800 8004 for a paper copy. Shortlisted nominees will be invited to a special awards ceremony at county hall on January 26.