Exceptional times call for exceptional people and this year's Staffordshire Moorlands Community Sports Awards will celebrate the volunteers who have gone above and beyond to keep activities going and support their local communities despite the challenges of Covid.

Nominations are now open for the District Council awards which aim to celebrate those individuals, sports groups and communities who have shown incredible resilience during the pandemic, rather than achievement in sport.

Non-sporting groups or community groups that have helped people stay active and connected can also be nominated.

As the deadline approaches, we're particularly looking for nominations from Cheadle and Leek as the sports council in Biddulph has already made the case for its candidates.

Councillor Mark Deaville, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Leisure and Sports, said: "We all know that taking part in sport and being active is good for our physical and mental health and wellbeing at any time but it's something that has really resonated with so many people during the pandemic.

"Despite the many challenges Covid has created, clubs, groups and individuals have risen to them admirably and sporting activity has continued to thrive across the Moorlands providing people with invaluable opportunities to stay active and connected.

"For many, being able to support their local community has taken on extra importance and we've all been struck by the selfless and tireless way in which people have come forward to help others so I'm particularly pleased that we'll be rewarding some of the Moorlanders who really stepped up.

"So much inspirational work has taken place and, through these awards, we want to celebrate the dedication and resilience shown by the exceptional people and groups that have kept things going and supported local communities during this period."

The categories are:

- Resilience in sport volunteer award - recognising those who have gone above and beyond to support their club and maintain engagement with members to help them stay happy, healthy and connected.

- Beyond volunteer award- for those who have supported and united their local community.

- Diversity and inclusion volunteer award- to recognise those who have championed diversity and inclusion at their club and helped to grow the sport.

Nominations must be received by 5pm on Thursday 30 September.

Find out more and complete the nomination form on the website staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/sportsawards