THE search is on for the nation's senior Gold Heroes - an accolade which last year was posthumously awarded to former Southampton mayor, the late Michael Andrews.

It was given for the heroism he showed in putting others first in the Catalina flying boat accident on Southampton Water. He was one of two people who died.

The Gold Heroes award is for those from the over 50s generation whose extraordinary courage and endurance sets them apart as someone special.

It was launched about six years ago by the Association of Retired and Persons Over 50 and its association chairman Eric Reid explained: "We felt the time had come to recognise the contribution made to society by people over the age of 50."

Southampton's mayor died when the flying boat crashed and sank as it came in to touch down on the sea after a summer promotional flight for civic and local dignitaries. There were 14 VIPs and four crew on board the twin-engined 1946 Catalina.

To nominate your unsung hero for the award, ring the Freephone on 0500 050 050 for a nomination form.

Entries must relate to an act of outstanding courage/selflessness that occurred no earlier than June 1, 1999 and no later than January 31, 2001.