THE GREAT and the good of ~Bicester has been urged to come forwards for the annual Good Citizen Awards.

Nominations with Bicester Town Council have now opened for people to put forward their good neighbours and community stalwarts.

People can put forward the name of someone they feel has gone above and beyond to enhance the lives of townspeople and make Bicester a better place.

The annual Good Citizen Awards, run by the town council, is open to anyone and winners will be presented with a Good Citizen badge and certificate by town mayor Sean Gaul at the annual mayor making ceremony in May.

Last year’s winners included Bicester Garrison Sergeant Major WO1 Lee Davies for his work to bring the local community and the garrison together, and the mayor’s cadet for 2018 Carmen Simpson.

Bicester Town Council leader Richard Mould said: “Everyone knows someone in the community who stands as making a real difference.

“Over the years we have had a wide range of winners from Scout leaders to the foodbank founder.

“The Good Citizen Award is a way of thanking those people across our community who really go that extra mile.

“If you know someone or are involved in a local organisation and want to thank a special person for their efforts, then please nominate them for this prestigious award.”

The Good Citizen Award scheme was launched in 2001 as a way of recognising people who had made a positive impact on their community and thank them for their hard work in Bicester.

Other former winners include Bicester Foodbank founder Janet Ray, Kirsty Lowe in recognition of her commitment to the Langford Village Community Association, Group Scout leaders Jill Edwards and Ellie Thompson, Mary Daniels for 20 years work with Bicester Talking Newspaper, and Assisted Reading for Children volunteer Jenny Stockley.

Nominations are to be submitted to the town council before the closing date on Friday, March 8.

For more information about the awards or details of how to nominate a good citizen in Bicester call 01869 252 915.

Or more details can be found online at bicester.gov.uk/grant-aid-awards