SO what does it take to be a hero? Look no further than the host of community award winners who have been honoured over the past eight years thanks to the Daily Echo-backed Power FM Local Hero Awards.

Last year's winner of the Daily Echo award was David Timms of West Wellow, who despite recuperating from major injury himself went to the aid of two women when the car they were in plunged 40ft off a bridge.

We are also looking for those who have dedicated themselves to their community in the face of adversity, a story illustrated by teenager Errol Matthews from St Deny's, Southampton, who won a special award last year for his fundraising for Naomi House children's hospice despite being diagnosed terminally ill himself.

This year we are looking for more inspiring stories. So why not nominate the hero in your life for the top award by using the nomination form printed in today's paper. Daily Echo editor Ian Murray said: "We had some wonderful stories of recognition last year and we want more of the same in 2003.

"Just fill in the forms printed in the Daily Echo throughout this week and your unsung hero could become the toast of the south."

Your nomination could be a friend who has helped you through difficult times, someone who has made a difference in the community or a person who has performed a brave act for someone else. Young people can also be nominated on their own hero category - the Young Person Award.

We are also looking for a business that has given something back to the community in the Business to Community Award, while honouring an outstanding achievement in another new Special Award. Along with the hero categories pop stars and TV personalities can also be nominated in the music awards section as part of the new-look awards that will be presented at a star-studded ceremony on November 28 at St Mary's Stadium.

It couldn't be easier to make someone a hero. Just complete one of the forms printed in the Daily Echo this week and send it to Power FM by November 7.