The search is on and the spotlight about shine on those who enrich our lives through music, arts and literature.

Nominations are open for Carmarthenshire’s Celebration and Culture Awards and recognise excellence in arts and culture.

They are hosted by Carmarthenshire County Council and supported by the Carmarthen Journal and Llanelli Star.

The annual event will be held in April and will highlight the importance of culture in our region and showcase our county-wide cultural achievements.

They are open to anyone living, working or originating from Carmarthenshire who made a significant contribution to Carmarthenshire’s cultural landscape during 2019. Individuals, groups and organisations will all be considered for awards across a range of categories designed to shine a spotlight on all areas of culture in Carmarthenshire.

Councillor Peter Hughes Griffiths, executive board member for culture, sport and tourism, is behind the awards scheme.

“We are so lucky to have a rich cultural heritage here in Carmarthenshire with many distinguished artists, literary greats and stars of stage and screen continuing to inspire us,” he said.

“Hosting these awards, provides an opportunity to honour those who enrich our lives and add vibrancy to Carmarthenshire.”

Six award categories are being opened up for nominations.

This includes, Excellence in Performing Arts which recognises a performer or group of performers or organisation who have stood out in 2019.

There is also Excellence in Visual Arts and Crafts which recognises an individual, group or organisation working in the visual arts, design, photography, or crafts whose work has left a lasting impression in 2019.

Excellence in Creative Media recognises the achievements of an individual, group or organisation in creative media.

Excellence in Literature is acknowledgement of an outstanding individual, group or organisation working in creative writing, literature, prose or poetry.

Other categories include Excellence in Heritage, Excellence in Music, Young Talent and Outstanding Contribution to Culture.

A judging panel will narrow down the entries to a shortlist, before choosing the three winners in each category.

The closing date for nominations is Sunday, February 23, at 11.59pm. People can enter an individual, group or organisation online at https://bit.ly/2CzBFL6 or call into your local library or Council Hwb’s in Llanelli and Ammanford for assistance with the online application.

The awards will be presented at a ceremony at the Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli, on Friday, April 3rd.

For any queries about this event, please contact Media Wales Regional Events Manager, Isabel Goodman on 01792 545511 or email: isabel.goodman@mediawales.co.uk