TODAY, the Wisbech Standard and Cambs Times, together with Fenland Youth District Council are launching a very special awards scheme. The 2007 Achievement Awards , awards will recognise young people s service to the Fenland community in any capacity. We

TODAY, the Wisbech Standard and Cambs Times, together with Fenland Youth District Council are launching a very special awards scheme.

The 2007 'Achievement Awards', awards will recognise young people's service to the Fenland community in any capacity.

We know there are many young people in our district making valuable contributions to the community in all sorts of ways - and we want to know about them.

To be eligible for the award, you must be aged between 11 and 18 and be nominated by someone else.

Fenland Youth District Council (YDC) which was formed in July last year comprises 14 students from schools and community colleges across the district. These councillors are keen to raise the profile of young people and felt that an annual awards scheme was an excellent way of doing that.

"Often young people get noticed for the wrong reasons and we wanted to change that. We know there are many young people who have made significant contributions to the community and we would like to celebrate these achievements," explained vice-chairman Emily Allington.

Do you know a young person who has achieved in sport or the arts or against the odds? Or someone who works for a voluntary organisation, is a carer or does good deeds. Do you know anyone who gives up time to help others less fortunate than themselves?

To nominate someone for the award, complete the nomination form printed here and then, in no more than 50 words, explain why you are putting this young person forward.

We need to know what they have done and why you think they are worthy of your nomination. Over the next few weeks we will feature the names of those nominated, by whom and why.

All entries will be judged by the Youth District Council and there will be one overall winner who will receive £100 and a trophy.

The winner and all nominees who are shortlisted will be presented with framed certificates at a special presentation evening later in the year, hosted by the Youth District Council.

* For further information contact Wendy Coles, Fenland District Council community and youth officer on 01945 427114 or e-mail ydc@fenland.gov.uk