A national awards scheme to recognise members of the public who provide exceptional support to the British armed forces has been launched by The Royal British Legion.

With support from His Royal Highness Prince Harry, the scheme will look at people in Surrey who have made an outstanding contribution to help the armed forces.

Praising the new Friends of the Forces Awards, HRH Prince Harry said: “These awards are an excellent idea, and I am very proud to be involved.”

Prince Harry, a lieutenant with the Household Cavalry, served in Afghanistan with the British army for more than two months.

He said: “I know how important support from home can be. For those serving in the British armed forces, the knowledge that others are thinking of them has a hugely positive effect that cannot be underestimated. I remember that very accurately.”

Peter Bruinvels, The Royal British Legion’s manager for Surrey, invited members of the public to step forward with nominations: Mr Bruinvels said: “The Friends of the Forces Awards will say thank you to anyone in Surrey who has contributed materially to the well-being or appreciation of our armed forces.

“We hear of so many amazing acts of kindness and support that we strongly urge people to submit Surrey area nominations for these exciting new awards.”

Winners will be chosen in categories recognising individual, young individual, community group and commercial organisation contributions.

The winners will be announced in eight regions covering England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and those shortlisted for the national awards will attend a royal gala ceremony in London in July.

For more information or to apply, visit friendsoftheforces.org.uk or contact 0845 363 1478.