Here is how to show your appreciation in our Big Thank You Awards

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But when the coronavirus pandemic swept across the country, it brought with it an appreciation of the unsung heroes of society: key workers.

These unseen workers continued giving 100% in the background while the country was plunged into lockdown, keeping our nation ticking.

Now, as a second wave crashes into our district, we want to thank our Covid heroes for their efforts.

The pandemic has brought with it some of the biggest challenges our communities have ever faced. But the commitment, dedication and ingenuity of local heroes has truly been a sight to behold.

JPIMedia is launching the inaugural Big Thank You Awards in Yorkshire, sponsored by Sovereign Health Care, to salute those who have gone the extra mile during the pandemic, and beyond.

The Big Thank You Awards aim to recognise the heroic efforts of key workers, neighbours, families and friends who have been working, often behind the scenes, to keep us safe and healthy. And there are people from all walks of life who could be considered for recognition.

Such was the contribution of carers in particular, a nationwide ‘Clap For Carers’ became a regular weekly feature, as thousands took to their doorsteps to applaud their efforts. But there were other unseen heroes that emerged.

Neighbours threw open their arms - socially-distanced, of course, - and their doors to help people on their own estates and beyond in their hour of need.

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For some, it may have been as simple as a wave through the window to a neighbour. But for others, it was a bag of shopping, or medication, so badly needed.

Armies of volunteers played a crucial role, too. Quickly mobilised, they sprang up across the nation at our time of need.

Thousands of former health service medics also rejoined the NHS to help the cause, uniting with hordes of final year medical students, fast-tracked onto the frontline to swell the NHS ranks.

Teachers and school staff were held aloft for their stoicism, as schools began to fully reopen and our charities picked up the slack when authorities were understandably over-stretched.

There are heroes all around us, and as the second wave hits, those heroes among us will be called upon once again to march back into action.

They were always going to answer that call... now you have the chance to thank them for doing so.

We need YOUR help to find our heroes. Anyone is eligible to win an award - from NHS staff to local shopkeepers or volunteers. We are asking people to nominate their heroes for a Big Thank You Award. Nominations are open until November 13 and are submitted online at: www.bigthankyouawards.co.uk.

Russ Piper, CEO of Sovereign Health Care, said: “These awards are an opportunity to thank these amazing people and to tell their stories at a time when we all need hope and inspiration.”

Data Facilities, national NICEIC approved contractor and specialist in electrical compliance disciplines, has also sponsored the awards.

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Readers will be given the chance to pick 10 winners from a shortlist of 30. Winners will be presented with their awards during a virtual ceremony on Friday, December 11 at 7pm.