ENTRIES are being invited for the 2015 Association of Community Rail Partnerships awards.

The Community Rail Awards were devised so that the unsung heroes and heroines of the community rail world would have their hard work and dedication publicly recognised and rewarded.

Emphasis remains on promoting best practice and rewarding excellence in community rail development.

The aim is to recognise ordinary people doing extraordinary things on behalf of both the railway and the community.

Anyone can submit an entry to the awards either nominating people or projects.

But all entries must meet the criteria of the relevant category and adhere to the rules of entry.

"It is vital that people really do read the brochure thoroughly before submitting any nominations" said awards manager Hazel Bonner.

"The competition has become increasingly intense over the years so quality of submissions is very important.

"Judges will be looking for entries that not only fulfil the rules of entry but those that also fit or exceed the relevant category criteria."

The awards are free to enter. A brochure and nomination form can be downloaded from the ACoRP website at www.acorp.uk.com.

Alternatively, an email version can be requested from hazel@acorp.uk.com.

"A small amount of printed copies are available from the ACoRP office," said Ms Bonner.

Full details of this year's categories and criteria are contained within the brochure. Closing date for entries is Friday, 19 June 2015.

Winners will be unveiled at a special dinner and gala evening, due to be held on Thursday, 1 October, at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay.