PEOPLE in South Gloucestershire are being asked to help police leaders in their search for the best examples of local policing.

Nominations for the Neighbourhood Policing Award are being asked for by Avon and Somerset police and crime commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens and acting chief constable John Long.

The award celebrates local policing teams who work across the Avon and Somerset area.

PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “I am delighted to be announcing the launch of the Neighbourhood Policing Awards 2015.

“When I speak to residents and local people I hear many stories of how officers, staff and volunteers have gone above and beyond their duty or how a team has really made a difference.

“I hope that these people and the wider communities of Avon and Somerset take the time to nominate their local policing teams and tell us why they mean so much to them.

“It is because the nominations come from local people that these awards are so valued by the officers, staff and volunteers who work hard to keep us safe.”

The awards recognise the outstanding work of the neighbourhood policing teams and individuals in a number of categories, these are:

Neighbourhood Beat Team of the Year, Neighbourhood Beat Manager of the Year, PCSO of the Year, Special Constable of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and the Outstanding Customer Service Award. This year we will also be looking to recognise the work of Volunteer Police Cadets.

Acting chief constable John Long said: “The Neighbourhood Policing Awards are held to acknowledge the continued hard work and commitment to the public by our officers. On a daily basis they work hard to ensure you feel safe and are safe, with little or no expectation of recognition for their efforts.

“If you know of and can take the time to nominate a police officer, PCSO, special constable or neighbourhood team who has helped you feel safe in your area, it would be a priceless thank you from the communities our officers live to serve.”

To nominate for this year’s awards visit www.neighbourhoodpolicingawards.co.uk – the closing date for nominations is August 4, 2015. Nomination forms are also available in police stations.