TIDY Northern Ireland in association with Coca-Cola is running the very first Clean Coast Awards in Northern Ireland. Designed to acknowledge the excellent work of individuals and groups involved in the Clean Coast Programme, the awards recognise the vital role volunteers play in protecting our coastline.

If you think your group deserves an award for the work carried out on a coastal project, or if there is an individual in your group who you think is so inspiring they deserve to be recognised for their contribution to protecting the Northern Ireland coastline then we want to hear from you. Entry is free and easy, simply fill out a nomination form and send it in before 5pm on Monday 21^st September 2009 so your group doesn't miss out!

All awards winners will receive a commemorative award in recognition of their efforts plus a framed certificate. Individual winners will receive £100 worth of equipment of their choice and group winners will receive £200 worth of equipment for their group and all entrants will recieve a certificate to mark their hard work.

Volunteers play an extremely important part in protecting our coastline and this is an excellent opportunity to recognise their contribution.

AWARD CATEGORIES

Please read the notes below carefully to determine whether your group and/or an individual you know could be nominated for an award.

GROUP AWARDS

1. Coca-Cola Clean Coast Group Award

This award recognises the excellent work of a group throughout the year, who have worked with their local beach operator (eg council) and key stakeholders on the creation of an exemplary beach management committee for their stretch of coastline.

2. Best Youth Group Award

This award recognises the excellent work of a youth group which has made a valuable contribution to coastal work during the year.

3. Best Partnership Award

This award recognises a group which demonstrates the best working partnership with a local council, business or other organisation, group or individual.

4. Best Business Involvement Award

This award recognises a business which has supported the Clean Coast programme through involvement with a Clean Coast Group or activity or has been active on the beaches themselves.

5. Project of the Year Award

This award recognises a specific project or activity undertaken by a group which has had a positive impact on the local environment or community. This award can be given to a range of activities including lobbying for new legislation, conservation work, beach cleaning, improving water quality, overcoming issues with land ownership etc.

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

1. Most Committed Volunteer of the Year Award

To recognise an individual who has demonstrated their ongoing commitment to the coast through their consistent hard work on the coastline through clean ups or other activities.

2. Coca-Cola Clean Coast Programme Achievement Award

To recognise an individual who has overcome a problem or issue to carryout work on the coastline or has been lobbying for new legislation for beaches to improve water quality, protect the environment and conserve wildlife.

3. Coastal Enthusiast of the Year Award

To recognise an individual for their drive and enthusiasm in caring for the coastline and in engaging the local community in coastal activities.

4. Coca-Cola Clean Coast Programme Endeavour Award

To recognise an individual who has overcome personal hurdles or issues to carry out coastal activities.

5. Photograph of the Year Award

To recognise a photograph that captures the imaginations of the judges. The image could highlight the fun and colourful activities groups have engaged in during the Clean Coast programme or celebrating the natural beauty of Northern Ireland's coastlines.

HOW TO ENTER

Group entries and/or individual nominations must be made by completing the entry form which can be downloaded below. Please fill in as much detail as possible to give your group or your nominee the best chance possible of being selected and return the form to: TIDY Northern Ireland, Bridge House, Paulett Avenue, Belfast, BT5 4HD or email to jennifer.smyth@tidynorthernireland.org If you have any questions please email or ring: 029 90 736 920