There are only three days left to nominate an unsung hero for the Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards 2018.

The awards, which will take place on December 5 in St Andrew's Hall, Norwich, are designed to recognise the people who make a difference but do not necessarily get the praise for it.

Winner of last year's Volunteer of the Year award was Lewis Tibbs. Mr Tibbs, an insurance clerk from Walpole Highway, has dedicated his spare time to helping young carers and people with disabilities.

The 26-year-old spends several evenings per week with SPEADA Youth Charity as a volunteer youth worker.

He has also raised more than £5,000 for the charity through sponsored runs around the country.

Mr Tibbs said: 'I have volunteered at SPEADA for five years now a couple of times a week. It's just seeing what they go through and how hard it is for them.

'Everyone has problems but this puts it in perspective, and makes you feel like you're giving back, actually helping.

'Receiving the award was great, a big shock! I was nervous but it was good to be recognised in something that big, I didn't expect it. It's quite an amazing feeling really.'

Each of the 15 categories, including Fire Service Person of the Year and Team of the Year, are sponsored by a regional organisation, including Norfolk County Council.

A county council spokesman said: 'We are proud to support these awards again this year. We all know someone special who makes a real difference to people's lives and this is a chance to thank them for going above and beyond to help others and make this county the great place it is.

'We're also delighted to be sponsoring Carer of the Year. It's a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and recognise the incredible work that's done, day-in and day-out by people who touch the everyday lives of those they look after in so many of our communities.'

Last year, Carer of the Year Tracy Eves took home the Overall Star of Norfolk prize for her work at work at Meadow House nursing home, in Swaffham where she goes beyond the call of duty to make sure the residents are happy.

The application deadline is October 30 and the judging process will take place throughout November.