VOLUNTEERS who devote their time to good causes are to be recognised in a new round of the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.
Awards organisers are seeking nominations from the public about volunteers and community groups they feel deserve praise.
In Yorkshire and Humberside, the value of services such as caring for people in their homes, counselling or raising money for good causes has been estimated at £1bn.
Home Office minister Fiona Mactaggart said: "I'm constantly impressed at just how generous people are with their time when it comes to a cause they believe in."
She continued: "The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service was set up to recognise the vital work that volunteers do in all our communities, so I urge you to nominate a group local to you."
The award scheme, now in its third year, was created to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee.
More than 300 groups have received the award so far.
Members of the public who have either benefited from voluntary work or seen the positive effects upon a community can make a nomination.
Forms are available by contacting 0845 000 2002 or logging on to www.queensawardvoluntary.gov.uk
