THIS year has highlighted the importance of Hampshire's NHS staff, as well as medical professionals across the UK, during these trying times.

Whether it was standing on your door step to clap for the NHS or putting rainbows in your window to show your support, the county hasn't failed to express its gratitude to those who have been working on the coronavirus frontline.

That's why - now more than ever - it is important to find the Southampton's unsung hospital hero.

Today, the Daily Echo has launched its annual campaign to find Southampton's 2021 hospital hero.

Working in partnership with University Hospital Southampton, we are asking you to nominate the person you think deserves the title of a Hospital (Super)Hero.

Whether they are a nurse who volunteered to work 12 hours shifts on a Covid-19 ward, a midwife bringing a newborn baby into the unstable 2020, or a dedicated volunteer putting a smile on patients' faces everyday – they are all champions in their own right.

The year will mark the 14th annual year in search of a new star to clinch a coveted title in the trust’s Hospital Heroes Awards.

The Daily Echo’s Reader’s Choice Award will be presented to an individuals who our readers feel have gone the the extra mile to provide support to people.

This year will see a number of changes to the awards, including a revamp to recognise the work that has been happening across the whole Trust.

UHS is also planning a virtual awards ceremony with re-recorded citations and presentations.

They hope to premier the film at locations across the hospital so staff can celebrate in some capacity together – social distancing allowing if we are still in that place.

Last year's winner was Consultant Neonatologist Alok Sharma, who was nominated by Charlie May for supporting her son Cohen while he had an infection before he sadly passed away.

Staff Nurse in Cancer Care Amy Tooley was the runner up for Daily Echo award, nominated by Lisa Huntriss who said Amy has been there for her while battling lymphoma.

More than 350 guests attended the annual event at St Mary's Stadium in honour of the work that nurse and hospital staff do throughout the year.

To nominate, please email Daily Echo reporter Emily Liddell at emily.liddell@dailyecho.co.uk.

Please be sure to include the name of the person you are nominating, their job title, and why you are nominating them, as well as your name, age and where you live. If you have any relevant photos, please attach them to your submission.