The annual awards, now in their sixth year, celebrate courage, caring, compassion and community, recognizing unsung heroes who make a difference.

Iommi will be joined on the judging panel by, among others, “Saturday Kitchen” host Glynn Purnell, “Line Of Duty” star Claudia Jessie, last year’s “Special Recognition” award winner Linda Sandhar-Haynes, and Central ITV host Sameena Ali-Khan.

This marks the second year in the judging hot seat for Tony, who said: “I’d been to Pride Of Birmingham before. But until last year as a presenter, not as a judge.

“It was humbling to read of the amazing achievements and extraordinary efforts of the shortlisted nominees. Helping pick the winners was one of the toughest things I’ve done.

“I’m looking forward to looking through this year’s nominations. There are some fantastic people doing fantastic things in and around Birmingham.”

The Birmingham Mail‘s Pride Of Birmingham Awards, with partners TSB, will be hosted by “Coronation Street” star Kym Marsh at the University of Birmingham in March.

Winners go forward to the shortlist for The Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards, with partners TSB.