THE search is on in Bucks for those dedicated individuals who give up hours on end to make sure the team kit is washed, the clubhouse is open and the kids get to their matches on time.

And also being sought out are workplaces that go above and beyond to help staff to lead healthy active lifestyles.

The annual Bucks and MK Sport Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution by those who make sport happen across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes, from coaches and young leaders to active workplaces and schools.

There are nine different awards up for grabs, and organisers are calling for nominations before the deadline expires.

Shortlisted nominees will be invited to a glittering awards ceremony at the prestigious Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury, with a fantastic night of celebration, including celebrity comperes, a showcase of local talent, award presentations and after-party celebrations.

Winners in some categories feed into the Regional BBC Sports Awards, and any qualifying unsung hero nominations could win in the same category at the National BBC Sports Personality of the Year in December.

Kevin Brooks, from Wycombe District Swimming Club, won the Coach of the Year category in 2013 and called it a great honour.

He said: "I get a huge satisfaction out of seeing the kids achieve their goals.

"Winning this award isn't just recognition for me, it's recognition for the work that everyone at the club does."

So if you know an individual, club or organisation who make sport happen, nominate them for the recognition and the thanks they deserve.

The awards are co-ordinated by Leap – The County Sport & Activity Partnership for Bucks and MK, which aims to help coaches, volunteers, schools and sports clubs to achieve its mission of getting more people active for life. For a full list of the categories and to nominate your local sporting champion visit www.leapwithus.org.uk/sportawards