Anyone nominated for a 2014 Volunteer Swale Award will be presented with one of these

colourful pin badges.

Swale council is running the scheme in partnership with the KM Group to recognise the borough’s unsung heroes.

There’s still a bit of time left if there is someone you would like to put forward, as nominations close at 5pm on Friday, January 31.

The aim is to honour the hard work of people who give their time to put something back into their community and all those nominated will get a badge.

Those shortlisted will be invited to attend an awards ceremony at the Coniston Hotel in Sittingbourne in March when the winners will be announced.

There are eight categories: young volunteer of the year; adult volunteer; outstanding achievement – someone who has done something remarkable, be it length of service, amount of money raised or a significant impact on an individual or community.

Then there is environmental volunteer; fundraising volunteer – focusing on the method used rather than the total raised.

Also, business contribution to volunteering – a local business which has allowed its staff to volunteer, in turn having a positive impact on their community.

Organisers are also looking for volunteers for sport and volunteer team of the year.

This could be the management team of a voluntary or community organisation, a board of school governors, board of trustees or a coaching team for a sports club.

An example of a Sittingbourne voluntary group is boxing club Swale Gloves ABC. It was set up by resident John Williams in 2008 and provides classes for youngsters age five to 17.

Since its launch, it has raised more than £15,000 to put back into the club and improve the lives of many of its members.

For information and how to nominate, go to www.swale.gov.uk/volunteer-swale or follow Swale council on Facebook and Twitter.