THE search is on for extraordinary retired people living in West Devon following the announcement from retirement specialist, McCarthy & Stone, that it is launching its first national retirement awards.

The awards are being organised by the retirement developer, with the support of Olympic and Commonwealth athlete, Dame Mary Peters DBE, and have been designed to celebrate the achievements and contributions made by over 60s living up and down the country.

People have until February 29 to send in their nominations for individuals or groups of people who have done something worthy of recognition, excelled in their field or have gone all out to help their local community.

All entries will be judged by an expert panel before being selected to compete at a regional final in spring 2012. The national final awards will be presented by Dame Mary Peters, OBE.

The five categories are:

l Courage — rewarding an act of courage or bravery, or honouring a personal fight against adversity.

l  Community — for those individuals or groups who make a real difference in their neighbourhoods and local community.

l  Sport — honouring the achievement in active sport by an individual or a team of retired people.

l  Charity — for a champion team of fundraisers or those who give up their own time to help others.

l  Overall Winner — for the individual or group that has excelled in any field or discipline.

The winner in each category will scoop a prize of £1,000 while the overall winner will be presented with a cheque for £5,000.

Aileen King, regional managing director for McCarthy & Stone, said: 'We want to honour these amazing individuals so if you know a person or a group of people who have achieved something extraordinary in their later years, get in touch now!'

To make your nomination, please visit Rivers Edge Court on Oaklands Drive in Oakhampton or St John's Court on Abbey Rise in Tavistock to pick up an entry form or alternatively, download a form by visiting http://www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/retirementawards">www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/retirementawards or call 0800 919132.