TEACH THEM WHO'S THE BEST - GIDLEY

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 9th Jul 2008

As ITV Meridian launches its 'Teacher of the Year Award' this week, city and county MP Sandra Gidley is encouraging people to nominate any of the area's teachers who have made such a contribution to the lives of their pupils.

Every year millions of viewers celebrate the unsung teaching heroes of Britain on ITV1 at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards - and Sandra is convinced that this year the winner could be local.

Speaking in London today, Sandra said:

"We are lucky to have so many good local schools and I know from having been to them that we have lots of star teachers too.

"Whilst so many teachers remain in all of our memories - great teachers help to shape our lives and interests. I always remember my favourite teacher, Mr. Brown, who made school so much fun that none of us ever wanted to go home! I may not be where I am today if he hadn't inspired me to want to always try new things.

"I hope that local pupils parents will nominate some of our very best teachers, as I am confident that this year's winner could well come from this area."

Nomination forms can be obtained from www.itvlocal.com/teacher and close on Friday 1 August.

ENDS