IT’S that time of year when our readers get the chance to salute their local NHS heroes with the annual Star People’s Choice Award.

It gives you the opportunity to reward the dedication of our local NHS staff in St Helens and Whiston hospitals, by nominating the individual or team who in your opinion went the extra mile for you or your family.

Last year, the Rheumatology Department were victorious following your nominations praising their first class care for patients with acute and chronic long term conditions.

This year’s winner will be honoured at the St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, 11th Annual Staff Awards Presentation Evening, at the Liverpool Arena in July 2015.

The staff and attendees will be joined by a number of famous faces (who waive their appearance fee) on a night that is always a joyous occasion.

As well as the People’s Choice Award, chosen by the St Helens Star readers, there will also be awards on the evening for:

Excellence in Clinical Care Award

Excellence in Support Services Award

Excellence in Service Improvement Award

Excellence in Patient Experience Award

Employee of the Year Award

Team of the Year Award

The event is at no cost to the NHS.

To vote for your winner of the Star People’s Choice Award, send the person or team's details and reason for nominating to Judith Marsland, Media, PR & Communications, Whiston Hospital, Warrington Road, Prescot, L35 5DR or email: judith.marsland@sthk.nhs.uk

Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number.

Closing date for nominations - Friday, April 24.