Time to give our healthy heroes the credit they deserve

International Year of Co-operatives logo

Residents have the chance to pay tribute to those who help boost the physical and mental health of themselves and others around the borough.

The Pride of Rochdale Awards will celebrate the 2012 International Year of Co-operatives by recognising the great things that happen through the actions and efforts of local people.

One of the categories, Changing Lives through Well Being, focuses on the importance of good health, feeling great and taking care of yourself.

It will give the public the chance to think about health and well being and honour those who set a shining example.

Jane Rossini, Director of Public Health at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “The great thing about health and well being is that most people can do something about it. They have the power to change their lives - sometimes they just need a push or some help to get started.”

Councillor Colin Lambert, Council Leader and Lead Member for Health, added: “We’re looking for inspirational people who have made a change in lifestyle or taken up hobbies and pastimes that have transformed their lives, especially those who volunteer to help others. This award is a really special way of saying thank you to some of our local heroes.”

The closing date for nominations is 31 July 2012. The awards ceremony will be held at Middleton Arena on 27 September.

The Pride of Rochdale Borough Awards will recognise the contributions that people around the area make to their communities.

Categories for the awards include Volunteer and Young Volunteer of the Year, Unsung Hero in Sport, Community Group of the Year, Disabled Sports Achiever, Good Neighbour, Sports Club of the Year and Organisation of the Year.

Candidates could include volunteers who are helping people to improve their literacy skills, residents who are working to bring different communities together and people or groups who have improved their health and well being, or helped others to do so.

The closing date for nominations is 31 July.