PENSIONERS who make a difference in the community could become a local hero.

People are invited to put forward the name of anyone over the age of 65 who is supporting a community in the south for the Churchill Awards.

Nominated heroes could be part of a youth football club, run meals on wheels, or campaign selflessly for an important cause.

Spencer McCarthy, chairman and group managing director of Ringwood-based Churchill Retirement Living, which has organised the awards, said: “We know that many older people still play an important role in all realms of society – in film, politics, art, scientific research, older people are still at the forefront of excellence in their field.

"Even in sport we forget that examples like Sir Alex Ferguson prove that excellence knows no age boundaries.

“But our awards are not only about famous sportsmen, actors and politicians.

"Pensioners all over the country are making an exceptional contribution to their local communities every day and it was just as important for us to recognise these ‘local heroes’ as it was to honour PD James and the late Sir Henry Cecil, who were two of our winners last year.

“The local heroes we are looking for don’t seek recognition so we encourage everyone to tell us about their own particular hero and why we should honour them.”

To nominate someone, visit churchillretirement.co.uk or email localhero@churchill retirement.co.uk.