The Stourbridge News and the Halesowen & Dudley News is delighted to be launching the Dudley Borough Community Awards in partnership with the University of Worcester.

We hope the awards will celebrate all the wonderful things that are happening across the borough as well as shine a light on our region and its many, many success stories.

From businesses to charities and schools to pubs, these awards seek to recognise those who go the extra mile to serve our communities.

Launching the awards, editor of the Stourbridge News, Halesowen News & Dudley News Stephanie Preece said: "Our newspapers and websites reflect the positive actions of our communities every day, but we hope these awards will give the people of Dudley borough a voice that is heard.

"Many of us truly appreciate the efforts of those who work tirelessly to help or serve others and who ensure our communities thrive and remain inclusive and positive places.

"These awards will be a fantastic opportunity for people to celebrate those individuals and organisations that make our region unique and special."

The awards are made up of 12 categories:

Business of the Year

New Business of the Year

Best Customer Service

Best Independent Trader of the Year

Best Eating Establishment or Bar of the Year

Best Community Project or Group

Best Volunteer or Fundraiser of the year

Sports Team or Club of the Year

Teacher of the Year

Environmental Project of the Year

Young person of the Year

Diversity in the Community Award

There will also be an award for Outstanding Commitment to Dudley selected from the other category winners and crowned overall winner of the Dudley Borough Community Awards 2023.

Submitting your nomination takes just a few minutes - just visit here

The winners will be revealed at an exclusive black tie event on Thursday, November 23, at the Copthorne Hotel, Dudley.

The closing date for nominations is noon on September 24.

Businesses who may be interested in sponsoring the awards should email debra.orr@localiq.co.uk