Kate ScotterTime is running out for people who go the extra mile to help the environment to enter this year's Eco Awards.Kate Scotter

Time is running out for people who go the extra mile to help the environment to enter this year's Eco Awards.

The deadline for the awards, which were launched by Norwich City Council in partnership with the Norwich Evening News in September, is fast approaching and people are being reminded to get their entries in.

Held to celebrate the hard work going on around the city to make Norwich a more eco-friendly place to be, the awards are open to businesses, schools and community groups.

Nominees so far have included Norfolk Homemakers, a charity which saves furniture from landfill and supplies it at very cheap cost to those in need, Craig Michael studios, a Norwich-based business which uses recycled materials to make toys, gifts and keepsakes, and City College Norwich, which has developed an environmentally-friendly travel plan to promote green transport.

Brian Morrey, the council's executive member for sustainable city development, said: 'It is really important for people at a grass roots level to get involved with eco issues. Not only will actions help to improve the area they live in, but also for future generations living there.

'I would really encourage people to enter - I know there are plenty of people doing things out there; we just need them to shout about it.'

It is the second time the awards have been held. Categories are business, to be split into small business (less than 50 staff) and large (more than 50), schools and community groups.

All entries, judged by members of the city council's climate change panel, will be put forward to win the eco hero award, which recognises the hard work of an individual or group to improve the city.

The awards will be presented by the Sheriff of Norwich, Professor Tim O'Riordan, and last year's eco hero winner John Popely.

The Norwich Eco Awards are open only to applicants from the city council area. The deadline for entries is Friday, January 29.

To enter, complete an entry form. This can be downloaded from www.norwich.gov.uk or for a paper copy call Richard Willson, environmental strategy manager, on 01603 212312.

Are you doing something to help the environment? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk

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