Have you been impressed by the dedication of a volunteer, the support of a club or the achievement of a young athlete? Surrey Paralympian Rachel Morris, world champion and London 2012 medallist in handcycling, urges Surrey's residents to support their local sports awards and nominate these outstanding groups and individuals.

The local sports awards are run in borough and districts across Surrey every year, recognising and celebrating the wealth of local sporting talent and their success over the last 12 months. Online nominations for this year's awards are now open, with categories including coaches, volunteers, athletes, young athletes, teams and clubs. Nominations are open to anyone who has made an impact on sport in Surrey and been an inspiration to others, whether as part of a team, as a coach or as an individual athlete.

Rachel comments: "It is so important to recognise grassroots sport. Every athlete starts out at their local school, club or leisure centre and it is partly down to the enthusiasm and dedication of the people involved that the athlete is supported and encouraged to carry on. I couldn't have achieved what I have without a great network supporting me all the way. Please take the time to nominate and say 'thank you' for their hard work".

Voting couldn't be easier, simply visit www.activesurrey.com/sportsawards and click on your local area on the map and nominate your chosen sporting hero through the online form.

The winners of the Surrey local Sports Awards 2013 will be decided at the 13 local awards ceremonies taking place in the autumn. All local winners will then go through to the county assessment panel for the Surrey Sports Awards 2013. The short-list for the county awards ceremony are announced in November, showcasing the very best of sporting talent and dedication in Surrey. Those shortlisted will receive an exclusive invite to the prestigious Surrey Sports Awards county ceremony organised by Active Surrey, to be held on 5 December, where county winners will be announced and celebrated in style.