A regional daily has launched a new awards scheme to recognise the good work of women on its patch.

Sheffield daily The Star’s Women of Sheffield awards aims to “celebrate females who have made a difference to others and their city”.

Twelve prizes will be presented to honour women from all backgrounds, neighbourhoods, levels of expertise and ages.

Awards will be given for work in the fields of health, entrepreneurship, science, politics, charity, community, grit and perseverance, engineering, sport, entertainment, education and creativity.

The prizes have all been named in honour of a female figure from the Sheffield area who carried out “impressive” work in each field, including Jessica Ennis-Hill in sport, Marti Caine in entertainment, and astronaut Helen Sharman in science.

In a message to readers, Star editor Nancy Fielder said: “I am still always surprised at how many women don’t like to ‘show off’ by telling their own stories which is why we are asking you to nominate your mum, sister, daughter, friend or colleague – because you know just what they have achieved.

“The 12 categories cover absolutely every aspect of life and we are hoping to find women who are only just starting out on their careers, as well as those already at the top.

“We also want to acknowledge that successful lives aren’t just about work. My most important job has and always be that of being mum, so please don’t feel you can only nominate professionals. Women keep the world turning with unnoticed acts of kindness every day and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with celebrating that once in a while.

“Our winners could be nine or 90, born here, moved here, give up their time for free or earn millions. We just want to show Sheffield that there are stories out there which still need to be told. In doing that we hope children, of both genders, will learn better that what you do in life does not need to be defined by whether you are a boy or girl.”

Th awards ceremony will take place on 7 March.