The finalists for this year's Ely Hero Awards have been chosen after judges carefully considered nearly 200 individual nominations. 

With the calibre of nominees at the highest yet, difficult decisions were made when the judging panel met at Poet's House Hotel. 

Each of the 10 categories has three finalists, but there can only be one winner per category.

Gill Prangnell, head judge, said: "It is never easy for us judges because we know some will feel disappointed, but nominees should feel very proud of their achievements and continue being a community champion lifting others up.

"They are a hero in the eyes of their nominator and the standard has been so high.

"It's a high accolade to have been considered in the process."

With the awards ceremony taking place in September, the highlight of the evening will be the award for an outstanding commitment to the community - THE Ely Hero 2023.

This award seeks nominees that are outstanding in their commitment to helping others in the community.

Ely Standard: Last year's Ely Hero Awards finalists.Last year's Ely Hero Awards finalists. (Image: Supplied)

The finalists are:

Most Amazing Professional 2023

Bogdana Ostrowska-Kubik - Ukranian Hub ECDC

Daniel Laurence  - Plumbing and Heating                                     

Ashley Moodliar - Ely Construction

Best Teacher 2023

Natalie Lewis - Isle of Ely Primary School

Jessica Webb - LECA, Littleport

Anna Cameron - LECA, Littleport

Child of Achievement 2023 including The Jay Davison Award

Teddy Woodhouse

Christina Verducci

Caitlin Child

Charlotte Gardiner

The Ely Hero 2023

Wayne Bent - CAMSAR

Liz Medd -CEAACC

Jo Webber - Littleport

The Mike Rouse Community Champion 2023

Brian Calvert - Scout leader

Paul Briggs - Ely Tennis Club

Kathryn Rowland - All in Sound

Colleague of the Year 2023

Gabriela Szigheti - The Poets House

Alex Crow - Witchford Recycling Centre

Caroline Wren - Littleport Community Primary

Neighbour of the Year 2023

Team D, Witchford

Teresa Sellers

Patricia Canham

Caring Companion

Teresa Sellers

Daniel Apostol

Liz Norman 

Smiliest Server

Jade Dace - Co-op, Burwell

Andrew Olley - City Cycles Toy Shop

Phil and Rachael Tate - Prosper Cafe

Sporting Hero

Phil Trelford - Swimming & Cycling

Emma Thomas & Fiona Dyer - Walking Tennis

Simon Rampley - Littleport Rangers