Education and business leaders are backing the Rotary Young Achievers Awards scheme which recognises youngsters who contribute to making Craven a special place to live.

Rotarians have been encouraged by the response the awards have received from schools, colleges and industry since the scheme was announced in the Craven Herald three weeks ago.

Bob Marchant, president of Rotary Club of Skipton Craven, said: “Over the last fortnight Rotarians who have been out and about distributing the awards brochure have been delighted with the reception the scheme has received.

“Everyone we have spoken to has agreed with us that our young people deserve to be recognised for the significant contribution they make to our community’s well being.”

Supporting the scheme Graham Hamilton, headteacher of Erymsted’s Grammar School, Skipton, said: “Ermysted’s is delighted to support the Rotary Young Achievers Awards for 2014.

“It provides an opportunity to recognise the talent and commitment of pupils throughout Craven and the outstanding contribution they make to our local area.”

This time around there are three new Young Achievers award categories – citizen, environment and workplace – which have been included to reflect young people’s increasing involvement with community affairs and environmental issues, as well as the contribution they make to the local economy through the world of work.

Ian Weatherill, managing director of Hope Technology (IPCO) Ltd, welcomed the inclusion of the new workplace award.

“Adding a new category to these prestigious awards especially for young people in full or part-time work is a great encouragement to those who are just starting out on their careers,” he said.

“Young people are our investment in the future and we must do all we can to recognise their talents, skills and abilities whenever the opportunity arises."

Speaking on behalf of the scheme sponsors, Craven Herald editor Matt Cornish said: “Every week the Craven Herald carries amazing stories showing how talented and thoughtful the young people of this area are.

“We are so pleased to be part of this initiative which gives everyone in the community the chance to put one of them forward for a Young Achievers award.

“I’m sure many of our readers know someone who is worthy to be nominated for an award, so please get nominating!”

The closing date for nominations is March 7. Details of all the awards, including the nomination forms, can be downloaded from the Rotary Clubs of Skipton and Skipton Craven websites.

Alternatively you can email awards administrator Catherine Owens at catherine.owens@skiptonrotary.org.

The scheme is open to young people aged 11 to 20 and is supported by Skipton Building Society, Coniston Hotel, Craven Herald and Pioneer, Wm Morrisons Supermarkets PLC and Skipton Town Council.