Celebrities from across Derbyshire have come forward to give their support to the second Community Champions Awards.

The scheme recognises the hard work of volunteers, fund-raisers, carers and others whose work often goes unsung.

And following the success of the 2007 event there are three extra categories this year, pushing the number of awards up to 12.

Derbyshire yachtswoman Dame Ellen Macarthur has given her support for the second time and said she was thrilled the awards were becoming an annual event.

She said: "I was really moved to hear about so many people devoting time and energy to help others. Please write in and tell us about someone you know who you think deserves an award and let them know how much they are appreciated."

Derby County Football Club has teamed up with the Derby Evening Telegraph, Derbyshire Building Society, BBC Radio Derby and Derby City Council to launch the scheme, which has also been given the backing of Coronation Street actor William Roache.

Ilkeston-born Mr Roache, who plays Ken Barlow in the ITV soap, said: "Community Champions is becoming a regular event and I hope this continues.

"It is always good within a community to recognise people that have done the good work and the smaller the community, the more effect that has."

The winners will be invited to a star-studded ceremony at Pride Park Stadium on May 18, where a variety of celebrities will hand out prizes.

The categories include Children in the Community, Courage, and Environmental Champion.

Nomination forms can be downloaded here, or from www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/communitychampions, www.bbc.co.uk/derby, www.thederbyshire.co.uk and www.derby.gov.uk.

They can also be picked up from BBC Radio Derby in St Helen's Street, Derby, and from branches of the Derbyshire Building Society

They should be returned to Kate Liptrot, Community Champions, Derby Evening Telegraph, Northcliffe House, Meadow Road, Derby, DE1 2DW by the deadline of Friday, March 28.