TODAY we launch the fourth Greenock Telegraph Community Champion Awards – recognising the very best of everything about Inverclyde.

The aim of the awards is to recognise, reward and celebrate the people who make our communities a better place.

The Tele is passionate about being positive about Inverclyde and in terms of our Community Champion Awards, there are only good news stories that will inspire and make you feel proud to live and work here.

Tele editor Brian Hossack said: “My favourite part of the job is being able to spread good news.

“Nothing makes the team here happier than being the first with a story that will make a difference to local people or show our fantastic wee corner of Scotland in the best light.

“Last year’s event was fantastic and recognised some amazing people of all ages. We also established the Rosie Veronica Mitchell Memorial Award in tribute to a little girl whose brave cancer battle touched the hearts of Inverclyde. It is given to someone who has displayed outstanding courage or bravery and our first winner, Molly Cuddihy, could not have been a more deserving recipient. We look forward to honouring Rosie again in this special way.

“Who knows what stories of tenacity, generosity and the overwhelming sense of community spirit found throughout Inverclyde we’ll uncover this time. What I am sure of is that there will be many.

"Our team is looking forward to bringing you all of the stories and honouring our next batch of incredible community champions.”

For one night, our unsung heroes from sport, business, charity, music, schools and everyday life will able to enjoy their moment in the limelight centre stage and deservedly take the plaudits for their achievements from those they have helped the most – the people of Inverclyde.

The Telegraph is at the heart of our communities we are proud and privileged to have served our readers for over 160 years.

These awards help us to reach out to the hearts and minds of people in our towns and villages who help to enrich the lives of others.

We ask everyone to nominate them today and give them a richly deserved moment in the spotlight at our gala event on Friday May 15 at Greenock Town Hall.

To do this please visit our event website at http://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/greenockcommchamp/