A PAST winner of Witney’s annual citizen of the year competition is encouraging all residents to nominate someone they think is worthy of an award for 2016.

Earlier this year for the 2014 awards, 20-year-old Perry Kerslake, then aged 19, took home the accolade for the town’s young citizen of the year.

The former Wood Green School pupil was given the award for the work he does helping children’s youth groups at the youth hub in Witan Way, Witney, and for organising this summer’s Lib Fest in memory of Liberty Baker, who died in June 2014 after being hit by a car.

Mr Kerslake, who is currently working on next year’s Lib Fest, said he would urge everyone to vote for someone they think is an outstanding citizen as it could change their life.

He said: “Just do it. It’s so worthwhile and so out of the blue for the person who wins.

“It helps them and really looks good on their CV. It was an amazing experience when I won. It was a real honour and even helped me get a job.

“For those people who want to volunteer and help the community, go to your local charity and say you can help them out. Lib Fest is always looking for volunteers.”

Last year’s award winners also included Sue Jones, 60, for her work as a volunteer at Tower Hill School and Sharon Hambidge, 56, for founding Pathways, a social activity group for people with learning difficulties.

The winners were presented with flowers, certificates, and specially-engraved pens at the annual civic reception earlier this year.

Now the search is on to find Witney’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year 2015.

The award goes to someone who has given their time and energy to benefit their local community, usually on a voluntary basis.

Judges will be looking in particular for selfless service to a voluntary body or the community, or someone whose service is acknowledged as making a real difference to the everyday lives of others.

There is no age barrier, but nominees must live in Witney.

The competition has been organised by Witney Town Council and winners will be revealed at the civic reception in March.

Anyone thinking about nominating someone as Witney’s Citizen of the Year has until November 30.

* To pick up an application form contact the town hall, email info@witney-tc.gov.uk or call 01993 704379.