Calor, Northern Ireland's leading supplier of rural energy solutions, has launched the Calor Community Champion 2013.

Calor are calling for communities across Northern Ireland to help salute unsung local champions who work tirelessly to improve the lives of the people around them.

Calor believe it is time that these people were recognised and celebrated - and have set aside a prize fund of £9,000 to do so!

This year, Northern Ireland's search will be led this year by well-known local chef and broadcaster, Paula McIntyre.

The winner of the Calor Community Champion 2013 will receive £1,300 and a bursary of £6,500 to give to their nominated charity or local organisation. The two runners-up will each receive £400.

Calor will also give £400 to the nominating person or organisation, with entries through their facebook page, www.facebook.com/calorireland, by September 30.

Once you become a 'fan' you can enter the Community Champion app and provide the name of your nominee, contacts details and say, in 250 words, why you think they deserve to win.

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Paula McIntyre said: "It is a privilege to be involved in this great initiative by Calor. I am fully behind it and have to say it has been humbling to hear some of the inspiring stories of last year's nominees.

"I am looking forward to putting the spotlight firmly on local heroes across Northern Ireland. You all know who they are, so give them the recognition they truly deserve. I am seeking nominations from every county, so get nominating today!"

Mary Geraty, Communications Manager, Calor Gas said: "At Calor, the team were energised by last year's entries, giving us a glimpse of the work being carried out by unsung heroes in towns and villages across Northern Ireland.

"They provided us with a closer connection to the communities in which we work and that is why we want to spread the word as far and as wide as possible for this year’s Calor Community Champion.

"What our local heroes, or hidden treasures, do for their communities cannot be valued in pound signs alone. Community Champion is one way you can recognise those who have made exceptional contributions to your local community."

2012 Calor Community Champion winner, Joe Boland form Donegal, said: "As a result of winning the competition, we have seen an increase in the numbers of young people joining us in volunteering efforts.

"The positive effect the prize has had on the Rainbow Animal Rehoming Centre, the Donegal Sanctuary and the Lifford Hospital Restoration Fund is truly significant, providing them with a sustainable platform to build for the future, all thanks to the team at Calor."

Calor will select the top 32 local champions, one from each county on the island, and put them to the public vote from October 4 through their Facebook app.

The public will have nearly four weeks to vote for their favourite and the top four local champions and two wildcards will make it through to the final phase.

The winner will be chosen by our Judging Panel led by TV and radio personality, Síle Seoige, and including legendary GAA and sports broadcaster, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, supported by Paula McIntyre and Mary Geraty.

(CD/MH)