They put themselves in harm's way to protect the public and help keep our county safe and tonight they will get the recognition they deserve at the Norfolk Safer Community Awards (NOSCAs).

Now in their 11th year, the NOSCAs – which highlight the role played by police officers and staff – will take place with a ceremony at the Holiday Inn, Cromer Road, Norwich.

Norfolk's chief constable Simon Bailey will lead the special awards evening which will hear stories of heroism and bravery from across the county.

Police officers and staff will be recognised but so too will members of the public who have stepped forward to do their bit to keep our communities safe.

During the evening crime correspondent Peter Walsh will be tweeting some of the highlights from the evening giving those not at the event the chance to find out what is going on.

Ahead of tonight's event, members of the public have had the chance to vote for nominees in a number of categories.

Readers of the Eastern Daily Press voted for the two Community Officer of the Year awards while the public have also been able to vote for the John (Cecil) Mason Volunteer of the Year, Young Citizen(s) of the Year, Community Citizen(s) of the Year and Police Dog of the Year awards.

Mr Bailey has congratulated all those shortlisted saying: 'In a year of challenge and change for the force it makes me extremely proud that we have pulled together and continued to work with our communities and deliver a service they deserve.

'I am always keen to recognise people who go that extra mile, including our officers, staff, members of the community and our valued volunteers. Yet again, it's also pleasing to see communities having their say through the public votes.'

Judges were impressed with the number of entries and the high standard presented and have now shortlisted in each category.

Award categories include: Student Officer of the Year; The John (Cecil) Mason Volunteer of the Year; Police Cadet of the Year; Police Staff Member of the Year; Young Citizen/s of the Year award; Investigator of the Year award; Problem Solver of the Year; Community Citizen/s of the Year; Response Team of the Year; Police Dog of the Year; Outstanding Team of the Year.