Hosted by the County Durham Environment Partnership, of which Durham County Council is a partner, the awards aim to celebrate and reward projects and individuals that demonstrate community spirit, environmental guardianship and great design across the county.

Over the years thousands of people have been awarded or commended for their contributions to the environment and sponsors are being sought to continue to support the awards.

Oliver Sherratt, Chair of the County Durham, Environment Partnership, said: “The awards are a real opportunity to highlight the excellent environmental work that goes on in our county every year.

“I never fail to be impressed by the efforts of County Durham’s volunteers, schools, businesses and community organisations.

“We want people, businesses and organisations to get on board and celebrate the environmental work that goes on in their communities and, in doing so, to help inspire others to do their bit.”

There are three packages available to sponsors this year:

• Gold – Sponsors have an award in their name, a representative on the judging panel and their corporate logo included in all publicity material for a minimum contribution of £2000.

• Silver – Sponsors have a representative on the judging panel and their corporate logo included in all publicity material for a minimum contribution of £1000.

• Bronze – Sponsors have their corporate logo included in all publicity material for a minimum contribution of £500.

Additionally, all sponsors receive an invitation to the award ceremony and recognition in the official presentation brochure.

The rewards cover several categories to recognise the efforts of a range of organisations and individual, including:

• Built environment • Climate change

• Community partnership • Craftsmanship

• Greener business • Natural environment

• Places and spaces • Schools and colleges

• Volunteer of the year –U/18 • Volunteer of the year O/18

• Volunteer group of the year

• Waste management

For more details on these sponsorship opportunities and the County Durham Environment Awards call 03000 267 147 or visit www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk/envawards