MAKE sure the unsung sporting heroes do not miss out and nominate them for the 2015 Hampshire and Isle of Wight Sports Awards as there are 18 different categories to choose from.

The awards publicly reward and recognise commitment, performance and excellence across all sports.

The wide range of categories ensures that recognition is given to elite performers, as well as to teams, clubs and stalwarts of the local sporting community, as well as the coaches, officials and volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help athletes and clubs succeed.

In addition, the Outstanding Personal Achievement Award is a special award to recognise inspirational endeavour on the part of a participant, coach or volunteer who has overcome adversity to make an outstanding individual achievement in their chosen sport.

The annual event is a joint venture between Hampshire County Council, Sport Hampshire and Isle of Wight and the local Sports Councils and Forums in Hampshire.

It has the support of BBC Radio Solent as well as local businesses and organisations including Paultons Park, Calshot Activities Centre, Serious Sport, Halo Conferences, Toucan Design, Inprint and Coaching Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

Nominations are free and open until Friday January 30.

Online nominations can be made via the Sport Hampshire and Isle of Wight website, sporthampshireiow.co.uk where you can also find nomination guidelines and the criteria for each of the awards.

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at Southampton Football Club on Wednesday March 25 2015. There are a number of ways to support the Awards and show your commitment to local sport.

For more information, contact Clare Rhodes at clare.rhodes@hants.gov.uk or 01962 845168 or Heather Windust at heather.windust@hants.gov.uk or 01962 846172.