DO you know someone who deserves the title of Bury Woman of the Year 2009?

If so, you need to submit nominations before the deadline of noon on Monday, September 28.

The annual event is organised by Bury Hospice and is now in its 12th year.

But this time, organisers have made some changes to the nomination process in the hope of receiving a broad mix of entries.

There are three categories including volunteer, carer, and business/professional/entrepreneur.

The carer category, sponsored by Majestic Publications, seeks nominations for someone who cares for one person or many.

It might be a person from one of the caring professions such as nurses or doctors whose extraordinary commitment to others is over and above the normal call of duty.

To be considered for the volunteer category, sponsored by Bury Council, a nominee may be someone who shows remarkable selflessness, devotion and service to the Bury community and who, in your view, deserves wider recognition.

The catergory for business/professional/entrepreneur, sponsored by Clough & Willis solicitors, celebrates corporate talent, ability and achievement. A nominee should be an exceptional businesswoman, professional or entrepreneur working in the Bury borough who has made a fundamental contribution to the success and development of their particular organisation.

All nominees will be invited to a civic reception at Bury Town Hall, attended by the mayor, Councillor Sheila Magnall.

A judging panel will then draw up a shortlist of three nominees for each category.

The winner of each section and the overall Bury Woman of the Year 2009 will be announced at the event, sponsored by Howarth Maitland Solicitors, at the Bolholt Hotel on Thursday, October 15.

This year’s speaker is journalist and writer, Heather Brooke, who hit the headlines through her work in unearthing the MPs’ expenses scandal.

To make a nomination for Bury Woman of the Year 2009, contact the Bury Hospice either by ringing 0161 797 1748 or emailing fundraising support@bury hospice.org.uk Say who you wish to nominate, in which category and why they deserve to be considered.