Nominations are now open to find local construction heroes and apprentices to represent Scotland at the awards.

Organised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the annual ceremony recognises the UK’s top construction talent and commends those who have gone above and beyond in their work.

Friends, families, companies and colleges can put forward a very special individual or firm for the Daily Mirror Hero of Construction Award or nominate outstanding trainees for the Apprentice of the Year Award.

Phil Ford, CITB strategic partnerships director for Scotland, said: “The Pride of Construction Awards is an excellent way to recognise and reward those making a difference in our industry and I would encourage individuals and firms to nominate and celebrate the talent we have here in Scotland.”

Previous Scottish winners include, Shetland based apprentice Christopher Smith, who won the UK Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award in 2014.

On winning the award Christopher said: “I’m proud to have received this award.

“The training and support I have received during my apprenticeship from my employer, the NCC and CITB have helped give me a great start in the construction industry.”

Last year’s ceremony also saw East Kilbride based apprentice plasterer Kenny McAllister win the CITB 50th Anniversary Apprentice award.

This year’s ceremony will take place on 25 November at the Natural History Museum in London and will bring together guests from across the construction industry, including high-profile business leaders, VIPs, customers, suppliers and apprentices.

The closing date for entries is 24 July 2015. To find out more and to submit a nomination, please visit www.citb.co.uk/pocawards.