THE finalists of this year's Herefordshire Community Champions have been announced.

After careful consideration by the three judges, three finalists for each of the five sections were selected.

The winner of each category will be announced at a special awards ceremony at Hereford Town Hall next Thursday, which will be attended by seven-time Paralympic gold medallist Sascha Kindred.

The awards were started last year to recognise volunteers who make a difference in their community across Herefordshire.

The Sustainability Champion finalists are: Anne Smithells, who has restored and transformed green spaces in Leominster; the Bromyard Downs Association, which carry out vital conservation work; and Marden Primary Academy School, which has shown its commitment to sustainability since joining the eco schools award system in 2005.

For the Apprentice of the Year: Aaron King has been nominated for his work during a professional cookery apprenticeship at the Temple Bar Inn at Ewyas Harold, while Liberty Perry was chosen for her work at Central Roofing in Holmer Road, Hereford during her business administration apprenticeship. Jordan Powis was also selected for her time as a business administration apprentice at crisps maker, Tyrrells.

The Youth Champion finalists are: Phoebe Crook for her work as a Youth Ambassador for Phoenix Bereavement Trust; The Wellbeing Ambassadors, who are a group of volunteers aged ten to 24 who are passionate about improving mental health services for children and young people in Herefordshire; and Tilly Lawson for her outstanding leadership and tireless efforts for her charitable projects within Herefordshire and Kenya.

The Volunteer of the Year finalists are: Hereford Canoe Centre, where Victor Gammage and 15 volunteers provide canoeing activities for the youth of Hereford; Kington Tourist Group, which is an entirely voluntary run group which provides tourist information about the attractions in the town and the surrounding area; and Pam Guiver for her 40 years of voluntary work with the Girl Guides in the county.

The Caring Champion finalists are Jan Elliott, who is the sister in charge of the wards at Ross Community Hospital and is relentlessly committed to her patients, colleagues and work; Jilly French and Netty Neil for their craft group in Innesfield and how they help the lonely and elderly; and Sonya Cary, who is the driving force behind the social enterprise scheme based at the post office in Pontrilas.

The winner of each category receives £500.

The awards are a partnership between Herefordshire Council and Cargill, and backed by the Hereford Times.