TIME is running out to make a nomination for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service 2015.

This is the highest award for voluntary groups – equivalent to an MBE – and was created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.

As chairman of the award committee, I want to encourage you to make a nomination before 30 September to ensure that voluntary groups across the UK are recognised for their dedication and service to local communities.

In 2014, 111 outstanding groups received the award; from those that mentor young people and work to reduce homelessness, to running transport in rural communities and helping those with mental health problems.

If you know of a voluntary group making a real difference in your local community, nominate them online at qavs.direct.gov.uk.

Nominators need to be independent of the group and entry is free.

More information on how to nominate can be found at qavs.direct.gov.uk/guidance-notes.

The winners are announced on June 2 every year.

Make sure that these groups get the recognition they deserve, and make a nomination by September 30.

MARTYN LEWIS CBE, Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service committee chairman.