Candidates for awards

FIVE committed youngsters from Royston have been nominated for the Young Person of the Year award by their school. The awards which are sponsored by Johnson Matthey were founded by Tony Gearing, of Great Hormead, near Buntingford, in a bid to correct the

FIVE committed youngsters from Royston have been nominated for the Young Person of the Year award by their school.

The awards which are sponsored by Johnson Matthey were founded by Tony Gearing, of Great Hormead, near Buntingford, in a bid to correct the unfair negative image of young people today.

Meridian students Sophie Lane, Ben Graves, Chris Clark, Hannah Tobiss and sixth-former Oliver Bance have all been earmarked for the award.

Fourteen-year-old Sophie, who received the most nominations, has been praised over the care and support she gave to her family while her mother was ill with Crohn's disease.

Her father Darren said: "Sophie's help was invaluable. She was like a second mum to her sister and her strength definitely helped me get through."

The caring youngster said that the experience has made her feel a lot older and although her mum is feeling better she will still help out as much as she can.

It is a case of brotherly love for 13-year-old Ben Graves's nomination.

He too, helps look after a family member.

His younger brother Lee, 12, was diagnosed last year with Asperger Syndrome, which means he can appear autistic.

Due to his condition, Lee lacks social and communication skills, so Ben of Newman Avenue, Royston, regularly takes his brother to the park to play and help mix with others.

Chris Clark, 15, of Green Drift, Royston, has been recommended for the award for his dedication to Scouting.

Chris, who is the leader of two Scout groups, said: "It's tough because many of the Scouts are the same age or older.

"It's helping me learn how to cope with other people and to care for people with disabilities."

Chris gives about four hours of his time each week to the 1st Royston group and 7th Royston group based in Barkway.

Golf enthusiast, Oliver Bance, has been put forward for his commitment to the game of golf.

Oliver's mum Linda said: "Oli has chosen a very healthy lifestyle without alcohol, and I think he is an excellent role model to many young people."

The Revelations Youth Group at Melbourn Baptist Church has also been nominated for its fund-raising initiatives for Africa.

The group includes 14-year-old Meridian student Hannah Tobiss, of Tall Trees, Rosyton.

Youth group leader Juliette Walter said: "The adults thought we would end up doing the hardest work, but that is not the case. The youngsters have really knuckled down."

The closing date for entries is Monday, October 16.

Mr Gearing said: "We'd like to hear from more unsung heroes."

To enter or nominate visit www.yopey.org or call 0845 838 2640.

The contest is open to people aged 10-25 years of age.