Do you know a person or a group in Fairlie who could be described as a pillar in the community? It’s time to vote for the Provost’s Civic Pride Awards!

Here in Fairlie we have plenty of reason to be proud of our past and confident for our future and that’s why we celebrate our greatest asset – our people.  

Don’t forget to nominate a person or group of people that you feel make a difference to the local community. 

This could be for simple actions, such as keeping the area clean and tidy, improving the environment or being neighbourly.

It could be that special person who devotes his or her time to encouraging and inspiring others.

Or maybe it's just someone who goes that extra mile every day with a smile on their face.

Nominations are now being accepted, with the deadline at 12pm on Friday, February 3 2012. 

Finalists will be announced on Wednesday 8 February and you will be able to vote online from that date.  

Finalists from each of the five categories will be invited to attend the Provost's Civic Pride Charity Dinner at the Seamill Hydro on Friday, March 23 2012 where the winners will be awarded with a trophy and certificate. 

All money raised on the night will benefit two charities - Cash for Kids and Hollybush House – both of which support people across North Ayrshire.

Cash for Kids supports vulnerable youngsters and their families while Hollybush House is an Ayrshire residential and treatment centre for veterans run by Combat Stress.

The 2011 event was an overwhelming success and allowed the council to recognise the exceptional talent, skill and dedication of the groups and individuals who make such a huge difference to local communities across North Ayrshire.

The event also raised a fantastic £18,400 for the two nominated charities, North Ayrshire Cancer Care and Cash for Kids. 

To view photographs of the 2011 event, click here. 

You can view the nomination criteria by clicking here or you can nominate now by using the online form here.

The Award Categories are:

North Ayrshire Community Group Award sponsored by Irvine Housing Association

A voluntary group based in North Ayrshire which has made a positive contribution and promoted or demonstrated civic pride in its community.

North Ayrshire Citizen of the Year Award sponsored by Marley Contract Services

A person residing in North Ayrshire who has made a positive contribution and promoted or demonstrated civic pride in his/her community.

North Ayrshire Young Citizen of the Year (Under 25 years) sponsored by Cunninghame Housing Association

A young person residing in North Ayrshire who has made a positive contribution and promoted or demonstrated civic pride in his/her community.

North Ayrshire Arts & Culture Award sponsored by Ancho

An individual or group, based in North Ayrshire, which has made an outstanding contribution to the field of arts and culture, either through artistic endeavour or by encouraging and supporting others.

North Ayrshire Sports Award sponsored by KA Leisure

An individual or group, based in North Ayrshire, which has made an outstanding contribution to the field of sport, either through sporting achievements or by encouraging and supporting others.