DO you know someone in Portsmouth who has been a real hero during the pandemic? We could help you to thank them.

We’re looking for remarkable individuals who have gone the extra mile during this year of challenges, loss and disappointment. You could nominate them as ‘Pompey Heroes’ and we could invite them to a special carol service taking place at Portsmouth Cathedral on December 21. It will celebrate everyday acts of kindness, big and small, by those of all ages, walks of life and backgrounds.

If you know of neighbours, friends or congregation members who have fostered community spirit during the pandemic, do nominate them as a potential ‘Pompey Hero’. Your nomination might be a frontline key worker or NHS staff member, or a helpful neighbour, or someone who kept in touch with those who would otherwise have felt isolated or lonely.

Of those who are nominated, a number will be invited at random to the carol service being held at 7pm on Monday 21 December in our cathedral. The precise size of the congregation will depend on Covid restrictions at the time. The service will be supported by sponsors Blake Morgan LLP and the Portsmouth News and will feature music from Portsmouth Cathedral Choir.

The cathedral’s head of fundraising and events, Sophie Henstridge-Brown, said: “Since the first lockdown, we’ve seen and heard so many wonderful stories of hope and kindness. We want to celebrate these inspiring people for their commitment to their community and continued hard work.”

This special carol service is just one of many concerts and services hosted at Portsmouth Cathedral this Advent and Christmas season, some of which will be available to livestream and enjoy from the comfort of your own home.

The Dean of Portsmouth, the Very Rev Dr Anthony Cane, said: “It is an honour to be celebrating the many acts of kindness from members of the Portsmouth community, especially over the past year. ‘Pompey Heroes’ will be a welcome opportunity to highlight stories of hope and positivity, in the context of joyous Christmas music from the Portsmouth Cathedral Choir.

“We understand that for many the impacts of lockdown and shielding have not yet come to an end, and look forward to giving thanks for those in our community who have given and continue to give so much.”

Nominations for your ‘Pompey Hero’ are open now at portsmouthcathedral.org.uk/heroes until Monday 30 November. Nominees will be randomly selected in early December, with those lucky nominees selected being invited to the service on Monday 21 December.