Acting Sgt Chris Foster, from Barnsley Police Station, has put forward special constables Dean Hibberd and Wayne Corbett along with PCs Chris Thompson and Sean Mountain for the awards category.

Chris said Dean, who has been a special constable since 2004, is a valued and highly regarded member of the force.

"He often places himself in situations that are difficult and dangerous, without complaint.

"Dean is reliable, trustworthy and a credit to the special constabulary.

"Between 2004 and the present day he has worked over 14,000 operational hours, equating to in excess of £300,000 worth of policing.

"He supports his colleagues and often volunteers for roles that others prefer not to.

In the last year alone, he has detained offenders in possession of cocaine, located a suicidal missing person, probably saving their life, assisted in securing a murder scene and ensured the suspect of a nasty assault was detained, in the face of aggressiveness and hostility.

He displays energy, dedication, enthusiasm and ability in everything he does."

If someone you know is deserving of an award don't hesitate to get in touch and nominate them now as the search is on to find contenders for the town's unsung heroes.

Readers are urged to nominate all those volunteers, charity workers, carers, community groups and good neighbours who make Barnsley the special place it is.

All those shortlisted for an award will be invited to a presentation night hosted by Barnsley actor Shaun Dooley, and the lucky winners will take home a specially commissioned trophy by Barnsley sculptor Graham Ibbeson.

The full list of categories is: carer of the year, children's champion, community group, emergency services worker, exceptional achievement, good neighbour, green award, school of the year, sporting achievement, triumph over adversity, volunteer of the year, young apprentice, young entrepreneur and young superstar.

Get in touch for a nomination form if you know someone who should have a Proud of Barnsley Award on their mantelpiece.