THERE is less than a month left until the closing date for nominations for the inaugural Monmouthshire Sport Awards.

The hunt for sports stars in the region was launched at the end of May and nominations close on Friday 31st July.

With sport thriving in the county, Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) has launched the awards to recognise those who excel or help others to succeed in their chosen fields.

There are 11 categories in all, including Coach of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Team of the Year and the Monmouthshire Unsung Hero.

A panel of judges will cast their eyes over the nominations, with the winners announced at an awards evening in Chepstow Leisure Centre on Saturday 12th September.

Councillor Bob Greenland, cabinet member for enterprise and leisure, said: "This year's sport awards are a first for Monmouthshire and what a brilliant opportunity this is to recognise the dedication and hard work that takes place in sport at all levels – from grass-roots to the elite.

"We have some very talented and committed sportspeople who deserve a spot in the limelight."

Ian Saunders, head of tourism, leisure and culture, is urging everyone involved in sport in any capacity across Monmouthshire to nominate a person, team, club or school deserving of an award. He said: "There's a huge amount of people across our communities who give their time each week, whether coaching or volunteering to help provide the fantastic sports opportunities on offer throughout the county – we need to say thank you."

mouthshires

portawards.co.uk to nominate your sporting hero or to find out more about the awards.