THIS is the final chance to honour East Lancashire’s amateur sporting heroes.

The closing date for the Lancashire Telegraph Grass Roots Heroes Awards is on Friday – so there is still time to put forward those you believe to be a worthy winner. The awards, now in their second year, aim to recognise and reward those people who contribute so much to their communities through participation in sport.

The 10 categories cover all aspects of local amateur sport from great individual and team performances to coaching achievements and those unsung heroes who have dedicated years to helping others. But you will have to be quick to make your nomination as a panel of judges will draw up a shortlist which will be revealed in Grass Roots in two weeks time.

The awards will take place at Mytton Fold Hotel on Thursday, December 6.

Iqbal Bhai, who won the lifetime achievement award last year, says don’t leave it to others to make a nominations.

“I was nominated by someone and was incredibly honoured to have won,” said Iqbal who has more than 35 years service to a range of local sports.

“Had someone not put my name forward then I would have had the chance to win such an award. If you think someone deserves to be put forward then make sure you do it and don’t leave it to anyone else.

“I will use these last few days to make a few nominations and perhaps they may get to experience what I did.”

The 10 categories are below. To make a nomination, email reporter Steve Tinniswood at steve.tinniswood@nqnw.co.uk - please tell us who you are, and include your phone number and a short explanation of why you have made the nomination. Closing date is Friday, November 2

The categories

  • Senior Team of the Year THIS is for a team that has shone in their particular sport in the last 12 months.
  • Junior Team of the Year AN award for a team that has stood out at junior level, either at a club or school.
  • Coach of the Year NOT just a coach but a mentor and inspiration to others – brings the best out of a team or individual.
  • Unsung Hero FOR someone who has shown dedication and worked hard to help others.
  • Lifetime Achievement AMATEUR sport would simply not exist or thrive if it wasn’t for dedication shown by this individual.
  • Spirit of Sport Award AN award for an individual or team who have exceeded all expectations in their field.
  • Community Club of the Year AN award for a club that is at the heart beat of the community - run by a team of dedicated volunteers and coaches.
  • The People’s Choice A TEAM or individual, talented athlete or hard working official. The choice is yours.
  • Junior Sports Personality An award for a youngster who may have won town, county or national honours and starred in their field.
  • Senior Sports Personality AN award for someone who has starred at the highest level possible – be it on the senior or veteran stage.