Today’s youngsters are the musicians, sports stars, artists and business and community leaders of tomorrow.

Here in the Dales we have a wealth of young talent already worthy of recognition so Skipton Rotarians are launching the Young Achievers Awards Scheme 2014 to celebrate the achievements of the current generation of young people.

The Rotary Clubs of Skipton and Skipton Craven are hoping the awards will highlight the ways in which young people contribute to making this area a great place to live.

Skipton Rotary Club president Gordon Jolly said: “Over the coming months I’m sure we will meet many amazing young people who have already achieved a great deal in their chosen field.

“We are not only looking for teenagers who are naturally talented, but those who have gone the extra mile to achieve their goal and have done what they can to help others along the way.”

The awards scheme, sponsored by Skipton Building Society and supported by Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC, the Craven Herald and Skipton Town Council.

Information has been sent out to secondary schools, colleges, workplaces, voluntary organisations and clubs around Craven.

Anyone can nominate a young person for an award provided the nominee lives within the boundaries of the Craven Herald readership area.

Gordon added: “Please tell us about young people who are the up and coming stars of the sports world and the art scene, as well as those who volunteer in the community working for others or protecting the environment. Also don’t forget all those young people in work who go beyond what is asked or expected of them.”

The seven categories are: Art, Citizen, Environment, Music, Sport, Workplace, with the top accolade being, Young Achiever of the Year 2014.

The judges will be looking for commitment, a positive attitude and any aspects of the nomination that makes their achievement unique.

Chief executive officer at Skipton Building Society, David Cutter, said: “We are delighted to be involved with Rotary’s Young Achievers Awards again.

“It’s always good to hear about the positive things young people do, all too often they get a far greater share of negative publicity than they deserve. But these awards give us a chance to redress the balance by rewarding and honouring them for their contribution to our community and to hear their success stories.”

The scheme has already received the seal of approval from education leaders. Robert Bellfield, principal at Craven College, said: “It is very important that young people are recognised for the part they play in our community.

“As principal of Craven College, I see the many admirable ways in which young people contribute to our society and view the Young Achievers Awards as a fitting way to reward those exceptional members of our community, so please nominate a young person you know who makes a difference.”

The endeavours of the Young Achievers entrants will be recognised at a ceremony in June 2014 at the Coniston Hotel. Nominations close on Friday, March 7.

Full details of the Awards Scheme and how you can nominate someone can be found on www.skiptonrotary.org. For further information you can also email catherine.owens@skiptonrotary.org.