PRIME Minister Gordon Brown has appealed to the Hampshire public to nominate "everyday heroes" who deserve to be honoured by the nation.

He said he wants to see more local heroes presented with MBEs or OBEs by the Queen.

The Government has set up a nominations hotline and an Internet site in a bid to find unsung community champions - like nurses, charity workers or sports coaches - whose efforts should be recognised by the state. The cabinet office honours campaign was kick-started this week.

Mr Brown said: "All of us know someone in our street or someone in our community who spends all their spare time helping others.

"They are always raising money for charity, running errands for elderly neighbours, coaching kids, or doing something to bring the town together.

"Carers, helpers, or just good neighbours, nothing is ever too much trouble or too much effort - they are the people who inspire us all, make our lives happier or easier, and make our neighbourhoods safer and stronger.

"They are the everyday heroes who make Britain great.

"And how many times do we say to each other, That person deserves a medal'.

"Well I think it is time they got what they deserved. That is why I want us to see more of our local heroes presented with an MBE or an OBE by Her Majesty The Queen."

Nominations are considered by the independent honours committees, and its recommendations are announced twice a year in the New Year's Honours and HM The Queen's Birthday Honours.

Members of the public are advised not to tell the local hero that they are nominating them to avoid disappointment if they are unsuccessful.

Nominations require two supporting letters and it is advised that accompanying evidence like press cuttings is also provided.

The process takes up to 18 months.

About 2,000 OBEs and MBEs are awarded by the Queen each year.

Local heroes can be nominated by calling 020 7276 2777 or visiting www.honours.gov.uk.