A new category has been introduced with special emphasis placed on honouring the county’s outstanding young people who have done something special for their community.
The Chairman’s Medal is awarded by the Chairman in recognition for significant achievement and outstanding effort in all walks of life.
It’s the highest honour the council can bestow and Area Action Partnerships (AAPs) are looking for countywide nominations, in the run-up to a major presentation later this year.
Cllr Jan Blakey, Chairman of Durham County Council, will double the award recipients from 14 to 28, when she announces the names of the successful entrants in May.
The Chairman has introduced a new Young Person’s Medal to rank alongside the Chairman’s Medal and nominations can be made for both categories in each of the 14 AAP areas.
The medal has been County Durham’s top civic award since it was introduced in 2007 and Cllr Blakey will hold ceremonies, just before her term of office ends in May to honour chosen ‘individuals for voluntary effort’ or ‘outstanding charitable organisations’.
The Chairman is working with the AAPs to find people and organisations that have gone above and beyond to make a difference and in particular is keen to highlight the Young Person’s Medal.
Cllr Blakey, said: “I am certain we will have many outstanding entries to be considered for both categories.
“We have some wonderful young people throughout the county who richly deserve recognition for the selfless work they do – work that very often goes unnoticed, but is so vital to the individuals or communities it helps.
“I want this presentation event to be a celebration of the achievements and effort that people of our county put in every day. We do care about what they do and I can’t over estimate the value that we place upon these people.
“I am writing to all AAP forum members and voluntary organisation partners to ask for nominations and there are no fixed guidelines – anyone can nominate someone.”
The deadline for nominations for both the Chairman’s Medal and the Young Person’s Medal is Monday 14 March and completed forms should be forwarded to: The Chairman’s Office, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham DH1 5UL.
For more information, call 03000 267 202, visit www.durham.gov.uk/ChairmansMedal or email chairmansoffice@durham.gov.uk