A new awards ceremony is launching to showcase the best individuals and organisations in Greater Manchester.
The ‘This Is Manchester Awards’ will celebrate people and businesses from across the city when it takes place at the Hilton Hotel in Deansgate on November 8.
As well as tipping a hat to those who have made great achievements in Manchester, the event will raise money for charity, with funds going to the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Homelessness Fund.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “Across Greater Manchester, organisations and individuals are working together to end the need for rough-sleeping.
“We would like to thank the ‘This is Manchester Awards’ for supporting the fund to do just that and wish all the entrants the very best of luck and recognition they deserve.
“Anything that champions the amazing talent we have across Greater Manchester is to be celebrated.”
Last week’s launch started with a bang when a number of famous faces attended at The Lowry Hotel.
Love Island’s Scott Thomas was in the mix, as well as judges Ged Doherty (BRIT Awards and Mercury Music Prize plus Raindog Films) and Kate Squire (BBC).
Other judges include Gail Heath (MCC), John Burns (Gatley), and Joleon Lescott (ex Manchester City player).
The event signified the start of the opportunity for members of the public to put forward their nominations for any of the 13 categories.
These include ‘Leading Bar’, ‘Leading Restaurant’, ‘Force for Fashion’ and ‘Leading Sporting Venue’.
There will also be the ‘Centenary Woman Award’, in recognition of the 100 year anniversary since women were given the right to vote.
The nominations are open until August 31, following which there will be a published shortlist and period of reflection for the judges.
Ged Doherty, Chairman of the British Phonographic Industry and BRIT Awards Limited, said: “The city is a hotbed for the arts and alive with creativity and support.
“I was proud to be asked to contribute to these amazing awards.”
*You can cast your nomination for the This Is Manchester Awards HERE.