Once again the BBC and Sport England East Midlands have teamed up to honour the people who’ve contributed most to sport across the East Midlands in 2006. This year’s event is on Monday 27th November at the Derby Assembly Rooms, presented by John Inverdale and will be broadcast live on BBC Local Radio.

One of the features of the event is the Unsung Hero award given to a local volunteer. The regional winner gets a place at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award.

At last year’s event Lord Sebastian Coe paid tribute to the work of the unsung heroes of British sport.  This is the annual chance for those people to be recognised.

Mark Shardlow, of BBC East Midlands Today, says, “We’re looking for someone who helps others play sport.  Someone who has made a difference to their community.”

Last years winner was 61 year old Bill Chambers, a school caretaker from St Anns in Nottingham.  He found himself rubbing shoulders with Pele as part of his prize.

“It was a fantastic experience,” says Bill, “But I know there are lots of people out there who do great week.  I thought a lot about my teacher and others who gave a lot to me when I was growing up.”

So please suggest nominations, giving your reasons and a contact number, for Unsung Hero and the following nominations:

Footballer of the Year (professional)

Young Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year (under 18)

Young Disabled Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year (under 18)

Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year

Disabled Sportsman and Disabled Sportswoman of the Year

Sport England East Midlands’ Community Coach of the Year (volunteer)

Team of the Year

East Midlands Development Agency Enterprise in Sport Award

Unsung Hero supported by Tesco

Lifetime Achievement Award

Send you nominations to

Mark.Shardlow@bbc.co.uk or by post to BBC East Midlands Sports Awards, BBC East Midlands, London Road, Nottingham NG2 4UU. Closing Date 27th October