THE search is on for unsung heroes working for the National Health Service or emergency services in the Forth Valley area.

Nominations for healthcare and emergency service professionals who have demonstrated outstanding service are being sought for the 2017 Pride of Forth Valley Awards.

The NHS/999 Award, which is sponsored by Stirling firm Moray Robertson Electrical Services (MRES), aims to highlight an act or outstanding level of service.

It is open to a team or individual from within the emergency services (police, fire and rescue, coastguard, ambulance) or the NHS (including nurses, doctors and other staff or volunteers).

Nominations close on Sunday, October 15, and the awards will be presented during a glitzy ceremony and gala dinner at the Airth Castle Hotel on Thursday, November 2.

The awards are hosted by Central FM and cover a range of categories each sponsored by a local business or organisation.

Moray and Cherene Robertson, who run electrical company MRES, are honoured to sponsor the NHS/999 Award and will help choose the winner as well as presenting them with their trophy on the night.

Mr Robertson said: “We’re a family firm who work in and around the Forth Valley area and like everyone we rely on the NHS and emergency services to keep us safe and help us when we need them.

“We’re really pleased to be involved with the NHS/999 Award and are hoping there will be lots of nominations for the category.

“Far too many people go unnoticed for the hard work they do which often goes far above and beyond the call of duty.

“So, if you know anyone who deserves recognition please get in touch.”

Mrs Robertson added: “It could be someone who provided great care while working in one of our local hospitals or a team of paramedics, police officers or firefighters who gave outstanding service during an emergency situation.

“The awards are for the everyday unsung heroes and heroines who make a huge difference to the lives of others.”

A Central FM spokeswoman said: “We are delighted to have Moray and Cherene from MRES on board as sponsor of the NHS/999 Pride of Forth Valley Award 2017.

“The awards are an annual initiative which aim to recognise and reward local people for their outstanding achievements, care, dedication or contribution to the community.”

To find out more about the awards and to nominate a team or individual, go to www.prideofforthvalleyawards.com

For more information about MRES, visit the website www.mresstirling.co.uk