A VOLUNTEER organisation is looking to recognise people in Dorset who make a difference.

Volunteer Centre Dorset is set to hold its annual awards evening on October 29 during national Make a Difference Week.

The event promises to be inspiring and emotional and has thus been dubbed Dorset’s version of the Oscars by organisers.

The event is being held at the Dorford Centre in Dorchester and the organisation is calling on people to recognise those volunteers whose efforts deserve to be celebrated.

The categories will include a young volunteer of the year award for under 25s, volunteer of the year, group of the year and the chairman’s award for voluntary contribution.

Deputy manager at the Volunteer Centre Dorset Craig Womble urged people to get their nominations in for the awards.

He said: “We are looking for groups and organisations to nominate their volunteer champions, as these are peer led awards.

“Many people are doing fantastic work within the community and deserve recognition.

“The free evening, which attracts more than 200 guests, includes refreshments and entertainment as well as the formal presentations.

“We feel it is Dorset’s own version of the Oscars, and is both inspiring and emotional and an important part of our year.”

Mr Womble added: “Every year we have more volunteers attending as well as welcoming old and new organisations.

“For those attending as special guests it is nice to find out what others are doing, show the width and breadth of the voluntary sector and the many diverse groups out their whose work and passions are equally as important.

“We feel volunteers are being asked to do more and more and without their help and support, local communities would struggle.

“Therefore as well as seeking nominations, we are looking for sponsorship from private public and statutory sectors, who appreciate these unsung heroes.

“We are particularly keen to receive nominations in the young peoples category and also the chairman’s award for employee volunteering.

“This is the second year of this award previously won by Waitrose.”

All nominations must be in by October 1.

Anyone who would like more information or is able to support the event can contact the Volunteer Centre on 01305 269214.

Nomination forms can be downloaded from the Dorset Volunteer Centre website at volunteeringdorset.org.uk