THE Pride of Swindon Awards 2012 take place today when the extra special people in our community will be given the recognition they deserve.

The ceremony takes place at the Steam Museum and will see winners honoured and presented with a certificate.

The Mayor of Swindon, Ray Ballman asked members of the public to nominate people they know who have gone the extra mile to help others to be recognised by the Pride of Swindon awards.

She said: “The Pride Of Swindon awards honour the extraordinary personal commitment the people of Swindon give to their local community.

“I have visited groups around the town over the last six months, and I’m amazed about what people are doing to make Swindon a better place to live in.

“I thought I knew the town, but it’s wonderful to find out whole new layers of activity we're not aware of.

“There are so many people who make our town special.”

From 2pm today, up to 20 people will be recognised for their extra special commitment and will receive a small lapel enamel badge depicting the 19th century inspiration of Swindon's growth and success, Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Their names will be engraved on a plaque mounted in Swindon’s Central Library.

Nominees ranged from volunteers who have given their time selflessly for years, a child who has shown remarkable courage, a person who has helped reduce crime in their area to an extra special neighbour or an employee who has gone the extra mile for those in the community.

Nominations were also made for teams of people carrying out an invaluable service benefiting local people.

The Pride Of Swindon Award is supported by inSwindon BID Company, Swindon Link magazine, Swindon Advertiser, Zurich Community Trust (UK) Ltd, Swindon 105.5, Intel Corporation (UK) Ltd, Intel, Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service, Mcdonalds, Voluntary Action Swindon and Swindon Borough Council.