INDIVIDUALS in West Devon are being asked to nominate their friends, colleagues, relatives or sports and community leaders for an honour. The plea comes as the latest statistics show just 7.8% of New Year Honours went to people in the South West region this year. In last year's Queen's Birthday Honours, the figure was 9.8%. Anyone can nominate someone for an award and anyone can receive an award, if they reach the required standard of merit or service. Nationally, up to 1,300 individuals are recognised through the honours system every year. In addition to nominations from members of the public, Government departments ask schools, hospitals, local authorities and similar organisations, for suggestions of potential candidates. All recommendations are considered by one of nine independent expert honours committees, each chaired by an independent non-civil service chair and comprising a majority of independent members, all selected after open advertisement. Sir Bob Kerslake, the head of the civil service, said: 'We encourage nominations from all sections of society from all over the country and we'd particularly like to see more people from the South West receiving recognition for their achievements. 'Some people may think honours are largely reserved for certain professions or backgrounds but they really are for everyone who has done a great job for their community and helped make the country a better place to live. 'Recipients have included people who have spent years fostering children, raising money for charity, made a difference by serving tirelessly on committees, helping people to take part in sports or doing valuable work in the voluntary sector.' The nomination process usually takes around 18 months from the date the nomination is made to the time a successful candidate appears on an honours list, while the facts are checked and supportive comments obtained. The honours committees decide which awards will be offered: l British Empire Medal (BEM), awarded for very 'hands-on' service to the community in a local geographical area. l Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), recognising an achievement or service to the community which has delivered a sustained impact and which stands out as an example to others. l Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), for those who have performed a distinguished regional or county-wide role in any field. l Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), rewarding a prominent national or regional role. l Dame or knight, for those who have made a pre-eminent contribution in any field, usually at a national level. Detailed guidance on the honours process and a nomination form can be found at http://www.gov.uk/honours">www.gov.uk/honours or phone the honours team in the Cabinet Office on 020 7276 2777.