The role of the regional media in showing how local groups make a difference to their communities is to be recognised in the Big Difference Awards.

They reward the people who make the North of England a better place in which to live and work.

The awards are run by The Big Issue in the North Trust, which - through its own work and that of sister organisation The Big Issue in the North - has made a real difference to the lives of homeless people in the region.

The organisers are looking for individual journalists or a newspaper title that have made a difference, by running a high profile campaign on community issues, or by successfully supporting a local charity through fundraising and publicity.

Last year was the first time the awards were presented and proved a great success.

Spokeswoman Margaret Quinn said: "The media - especially local media - can prove a real focal point for a community campaign, and rally local people to make life better in their communities.

"From running campaigns to save rural post offices to having a local road crossing installed - they make a positive impact on local life, and we want to celebrate that."

The eight categories covered by the awards are: