BARNARDO'S are to recognise the hard work of their volunteers in the Swindon area with special awards.

The charity is looking for nominations for teams or individuals who have demonstrated an exceptional level of support of commitment.

The awards are in their fifth year but this is the first time members of the public have been able to nominate volunteers.

Barnardo's, in partnership with the Marsh Christian Trust, aims to celebrate the efforts of volunteers within the fundraising, retail and children's services, whose work helps to protect local children from poverty, abuse and discrimination.

Barnardo's South West hopes to attract as many nominations as possible, especially as 2005 has been officially recognised as The Year of the Volunteer.

This year also marks the centenary of the death of the charity's founder, Dr Thomas Barnardo.

Pauline Twomey, volunteer and development manager at Barnardo's South West, said: "The awards are now in their fifth year, and we need local support to ensure that our most inspirational volunteers are recognised. We know that the awards are highly valued by the winners.

"With dozens of services, fundraising groups and more than 20 shops spread all across the region, we're sure that we will have plenty of contenders to consider."

Nominations must be received by Friday, March 18. All winners will receive a certificate, with £200 for regional nominees and £500 for the national nominee to spend as they wish.

Anyone wanting to make a nomination, should e-mail carol.stickler@barnardos.org.