Youth Council praises young people's accomplishments

Our Youth Council hosted its third annual County Durham Youth Awards to recognise the achievements of young people and youth advocates across the county.

Put forward by their peers, teachers, parents, and members of the community, nominees were recognised in a number of categories at a ceremony at Beamish Hall Hotel, with over 40 awards handed out.

Charlotte Foster

This included a Role Model Award for Charlotte Foster from Coxhoe. This category looks at recognising young people who put themselves forward s role models for their peers. Charlotte was nominated for volunteering work she does outside the Youth Council, after collecting over 500 hours of volunteering in the last three years.

Charlotte was also presented with the Durham Youth Council Choice Award after being voted for by her fellow youth councillors.

Amelia Lucas

Amelia Lucas, from Seaham, won a Junior Superstar Award. This category looks at recognising the achievements of young people aged 11 and under. She was nominated after she raised over £1,300 for charity making and selling bracelets at only seven years old.

Amelia also received the Ann Jackson Award for going above and beyond. This award was introduced this year in honour of Ann, who passed away last year. Ann dedicated her life to supporting vulnerable young people and ensuring they had a voice.  

Chloe Cullen

Chloe Cullen, from Consett, won a Spectacular Sportsperson award. This category recognises the achievements of County Durham's young athletes. Chloe is a junior sensei and has a black belt in karate. She was nominated after she came second in the individual world fight championship in America as part of the KKO Great Britain team.

Jonathan Pyle

Jonathan Pyle, from Chester-le-Street, won an Outstanding Young Person award. This category looks at recognising the professional, academic and personal achievements of young people aged between 11 and 19 across County Durham. Jonathan was nominated for offering his time to help the Youth Council when volunteers were needed.

Congratulations

Cllr Ted Henderson, our Cabinet member for children and young people's services, said: "I would like to give my congratulations to all of the winners and nominees at the County Durham Youth Awards.

"These awards celebrate the positive impact that young people can have on our communities. Well done everyone, you should be proud of what you have achieved."