Hero Simon calls on Plymouth residents to nominate their Brave Britons

FALKLANDS war veteran Simon Weston is calling on the people of Plymouth to help find the unsung heroes who represent ‘The Best Of British’.

Simon, who was named the Nation’s Favourite Hero in 2014, has joined forces with global hearing specialist Amplifon for The Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons, which will celebrate truly remarkable people who are an example to the nation.

Simon, who is an ambassador for Amplifon and will head up the judging panel for the awards said: “The Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons will shine a light on a very British breed of hero: those who, like Major Charles Holland, through incredible acts of courage, bravery and incredible selflessness, are an inspiration to others.

“We all know someone who deserves recognition for their service to others, their country or community and we’re calling on the people of Plymouth to nominate these amazing individuals.”

Jack Sleep, Audiologist at Amplifon’s branch on Mayflower Street in the town said: “These awards celebrate the unsung heroes in our communities – those truly remarkable people who are an inspiration to us all.

“If you know someone who deserves to be recognised for their bravery or selflessness then we want to hear their story.”

Set up in honour of Amplifon’s founder, Second World War hero Major Charles Holland, the awards will recognise courage and achievement in the categories of outstanding military bravery, overcoming adversity to take on an exceptional challenge and contribution to the community. Animals who have transformed the lives of their owners will also be honoured in the Hero Pet category.

Charles Holland was decorated by both the British and the American military for his bravery behind enemy lines during the Second World War. He was awarded both the MBE and the Military Cross and received the Bronze Star from the United States Government in 1948.

After the war the courageous veteran dedicated his life to providing better hearing for people affected by the conflict and in 1950 launched Amplifon, which has become a global company specialising in providing the best in class hearing solutions and devices.

To honour his valiant actions, The Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons will celebrate the achievements of exceptional people from all walks of life, of all ages and from all over the United Kingdom.

Nominations can be made in four categories: Outstanding Military Bravery; Against all Odds; Community Champion; and Hero Pet.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Army and Navy Club in London on Tuesday 17th October.

A panel of judges will also choose an overall winner of the Charles Holland Award from the category winners, who will win a trip to Italy.

The closing date for entries is Friday 11th August, and nominations can be made via the Amplifon websitehttp://www.amplifon.com/web/uk/awards