THE Bannatyne Group, headline sponsor of The Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards, has launched its 'Search for a Club Hero' competition.
Bannatyne's Search for a Club Hero, which is open to members of its five North-East health clubs, is looking for exceptional people who have worked hard to achieve their fitness and lifestyle goals or have raised lots of money for charity through physical activities.
The winners will be selected from each of the Bannatyne's Health Clubs in the region to attend the Local Heroes Awards ceremony in December along with a number of famous NorthEast sports stars and the cream of the region's grassroots sporting community.
Nomination forms are available from the health clubs' receptions. Bannatyne's Health Clubs in the North East are located in Chester-le-Street, Coulby Newham, Darlington, Durham and Ingleby Barwick.
As part of the prize the winners and their partners will also be pampered with a relaxing or invigorating treatment at the Bannatyne Spa, which is located at the Bannatyne's Health Club in Haughton Road, Darlington.
The winners will also be treated to a chauffeur-driven trip to the awards at Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield and an overnight stay at the Bannatyne Hotel in Darlington.
The Local Heroes Awards celebrates the achievements of grassroots sporting success and the awards ceremony is one of the region's most anticipated events.
Nigel Armstrong, managing director of The Bannatyne Group, said: "There are many reasons to nominate a member for Search for a Club Hero. It could be for making a massive lifestyle change, achieving their goals or using their fitness to support a charity.
"Alternatively, we are also looking for nominees who play a strong role in the community aspects of our health clubs by supporting other members and taking part in social activities."