Every year, Wessex FM celebrates the achievements of Dorset's most inspirational people in our Local Hero Awards. 

The Wessex FM Local Hero Awards 2013 are sponsored by Porter Dodson Solicitors

Teacher of the Year

We all remember our favourite teacher from school!  There are some brilliant teachers working in Dorset, and we're looking for those teachers who have really made a difference in the learning experience of their students.

Making A Difference In The Community Award

There are many unsung heroes in the towns and villages across Dorset, and Wessex FM is looking to hnour someone who has demonstrated excellent community spirit.  They may have helped out at an elderley or vulnerable neighbour or group, started a community initiative, or campaigned for better local facilities.

Boss Of The Year

Considering the number of hours we spend at work, a good boss can make all the difference to our daily lives.  Someone who has displayed particularly good leadership, managerial or coaching qualities will be awarded our very first Boss of the Year honour.

The Achievement Award

If you achieve something, it's always a good feeling to be recognised, and that is what another of our brand new categories is all about.  An achievement could be in the work environment, at home, with family, or in the community, or a personal challenge overcome.

The Customer Services Award

Good customer service can be the difference between consumers deciding to come back to a local company or taking their business elsewhere.  Whether it's in the retail sector, local services, or business to business, in the current economic climate good customer service is vital and will be presented to a company or an individual.

Mum Of The Year

They are all stars, but our brand new category for Mum of the Year will recognise a brilliant mum.  Perhaps a mum who has coped with adversity, shown friendship or support to other mums, or gone the extra mile to support their child.

The Charity Award

Raising money for charity is getting tougher, and our brand new Charity Award will recognise an individual who has made an exceptional difference either working for, or raising money for, a charity based in Dorset.

The Bravery Award

There are many forms of bravery, and Wessex FM has introduced the Bravery Award to this year's line up of honours.  This could be presented to an individual, someone from the emergency services, or the armed forces, who has shown bravery to overcome a challenging situation.

Young Employee / Apprentice Of The Year

While the youth of today get a bad press in many quarters, there are many young people showing exceptional talent, enthusiasm, and responsibility on their path to a career.  Wessex FM is again looking for nominations for young people already in full time employment or a work placement towards a professional qualification.

Inspirational Youth of the Year

This popular category in our Local Hero Awards will honour a young person who has displayed an exceptional level of maturity or inspirational quality, or who has made  a difference to the education, work, or life of their family or peers.