THE three judges who have the responsibility of whittling down the nominations for the Evening Post Pride Awards will meet later this week to begin their deliberations.

Swans captain Garry Monk is juggling training sessions to ensure he can come to the Post offices in Adelaide Street, Swansea, to meet co-judges Alan Lloyd and Mal Pope.

And as the awards begin to get into full swing, Bumbles of Mumbles creator Alex Frith told the Post why she snapped up a ticket to the ceremony on April 16.

"I'm absolutely delighted that the Post is holding these awards, and if people support the nominees by buying tickets it will make it a great event.

"I just think the management of the South Wales Evening Post are doing a fine thing by organising this — I'm just chuffed.

"I can't wait to stand and applaud the winners because they deserve it. And it's the public — not the top dogs, the celebs — who know these people and who have nominated them for the award."

Tickets are on sale for the event, and are already attracting a lot of takers for the awards ceremony at the Brangwyn Hall.

They cost £45, and for that each guest will receive a three-course meal, entertainment from Fat Barry's Soul Band plus the awards ceremony itself.

The nominees will be whittled down to three for each of the 10 categories, and it will be they who are the stars of the show.

"Anyone can come to the Brangwyn Hall to take part, but tickets will be going quickly so make sure you ring the Post to reserve your ticket soon," said assistant editor Cathy Duncan.

We have had nominations for people who have been responsible for helping people in a variety of ways, from benevolent companies to individuals going through hardships on behalf of others without a grumble or a moan.

The judges face a tough decision, and the Post is not even going to hint at the identities of any of the nominees until after the ceremony has been held.

Evening Post editor in chief Spencer Feeney said: "The South Wales Evening Post is delighted to introduce the first annual Evening Post Pride Awards.

"South West Wales is a chain of tightly-knit communities.

''We are proud to be able to recognise all those unsung heroes who make this such a special place to live in.

"Most of our community champions carry on in a modest way, rewarded only by the satisfaction of helping others.

"This is a great way for us to express our thanks.

"We would also like to thank all the sponsors who are supporting the event,"

To book tickets, contact the Evening Post on 01792 510000.

emma.judd@swwmedia.co.uk