When Luton hits the national headlines, it’s not usually for reasons that make our chests swell with pride.

But the Herald & Post has always flown the flag for the town, because we know how much there is to celebrate here - achievements which don’t deserve to be over-shadowed by the ‘bad news’ that too often sticks to the town, even when it isn’t true.

And we’ve decided not to wait until someone else drags our name through the mud before shining a light on Luton’s silver linings.

That’s why in 2008 we got together with the Luton Forum – the strategic body which links all the key public, business, voluntary and community sector organisations in the town – to launch the innaugral Pride In Luton.

What a fantastic celebration that was. It gave the town focus on what's fantastic about living here, we celebrated many special people and groups who had gone out of their way to make their community a better place.

This year we hope to build on the success of last year's campaign. We’re looking for nominations now in 10 categories, all backed by prominent local companies and organisations, so that we can salute as many of Luton’s heroes as we can.

We also have a brand new category for 2009, the People's Choice award. Once all the other award categories are shortlisted, the public will have the opportunity to place their vote from these entries for this special honour from the people of Luton. You can find out more by clicking on the categories button on the left.

You’ve got until April 3rd to let us know who deserves to win one of the Pride In Luton awards. You can nominate someone else, you can nominate yourself - but we want you to give the judges a real headache by making a case for as many of Luton’s shining stars as you can.

Lots of people complain that newspapers only report the bad things in life. That's never been true of the Herald & Post, and it's one reason why we continue to make Pride an important date in the town's calendar.

Last year Luton took up this challenge and we would like it to continue this year, as there is so much to celebrate about the town. So please tell us about the people, and the projects, who are making a difference and who deserve a pat on the back.

I look forward to hearing from you.