Good causes across the county could gain some well-deserved recognition at the fifth annual Kent Charity Awards.

The event gives organisations a chance to showcase their work, increase funding and boost staff morale.

Children and Families picked up the top prize at the 2018 ceremony, as it was named Kent Charity of the Year.

It received a trophy and £1,000 prize, helping it to keep providing for young people and their loved ones across the county.

The Big Cat Sanctuary was recognised for its work protecting some of the world's most beautiful and endangered cats, winning the first Outstanding Contribution to Kent award.

Kerry Millett of Broadstairs Town Team and Diana Hill from Victim Support were named Trustee and Volunteer of the Year respectively.

Chairman of judges, Susan Robinson from Kreston Reeves, said: "The judges are pleased to be involved in the Kent Charity Awards.

"It is wonderful to have the opportunity to say well done and thank you for the hard work that often goes on under the radar.

"Without this sector society would be a poorer place and we need to acknowledge its positive impact.

"We look forward to receiving lots of entries."

Ian Townsend-Blazier from Children and Families said: "When we applied to be part of the Kent Charity Awards we never imagined we would end up being the overall winner.

"We never doubted the good work we do and the difference we make to those we see and work with, but as a charity we are quite small in stature, with a big heart to make a difference across

the county.

"We would fully recommend being a part of the Kent Charity Awards - you have nothing to lose, only everything to gain."

The awards are free to enter and will be profiled in our sister papers across the KM Media Group.

Deadline for entries is April 2019, when finalists will be chosen by judges to attend a glittering awards evening next June.

To enter, or nominate a volunteer or trustee, visit kentcharityawards.com

To discuss your entry, email jo@risecommunications.co.uk, sarah@risecommunications.co.uk or call 01622 239303.