LOCAL Rotarians want to extol the good work of Craven's youth.

The Rotary clubs of Skipton and Skipton-Craven have teamed up to launch the Young Achievers' Awards 2008, backed by the Craven Herald.

The aim is to uncover the achievement and commitment of the area's teenagers. It is the first time the two Rotary clubs have arranged such an initiative.

President of Skipton Rotary Club, Mike Leeming said: "The scheme will showcase many stories of success, dedication and outstanding achievement as well as providing a unique opportunity to recognise young people's contribution to our community through the arts, music, sport, voluntary work and caring for others."

Rotarians are not merely looking for naturally talented young people, but also for those who have gone the extra mile to achieve success.

Entrants must come from within the Craven Herald readership area and nominations can be made by any member of the public, but must be supported by the nominee and two referees.

There are two age groups - 11 to 16 and 16 to 19 - and five categories in each. These are: * Art - this covers a variety of forms including fine art, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, photography, moving image and creative writing.

* Music - nominations can be for youngsters who perform, compose or both, as an individual, member of a duo or member of a musical group.

* Sport - this is open to people who are actively participating in their chosen sport. The category will receive nominations for young people who are either involved in an individual sport or team sport.

* Community - this category is open to all young people who have lent a hand or supported other people, through school or their local community.

* Carer - this applies to youngsters who are a sole or primary carer.

The judging panel will look at commitment, the length of time the youngsters have done the activity, their attitude and any other aspects of the nomination which makes their achievement unique.

A winner will be crowned in each section and there will an overall Youth Achiever for Craven.

Mr Leeming said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to recognise the varied talents and accomplishments of our young people.

"It is high time that the youth of today received full recognition for what it achieves, rather than being the focus of so much bad publicity."

Howard Jones, vice-president of Skipton-Craven Rotary Club, said: "The club is delighted to be part of this new project which will emphasise all that is good in our young people today.

"The scheme will showcase the scope and variety of achievement of young people in the Craven area, which will hopefully encourage them to continue to contribute to our community."

Craven Herald acting editor Peter Greenwood said: "We are looking forward to receiving lots of nominations for the awards. They will give us the opportunity to showcase all the positive contributions young people make to our communities.

"Too often, the media seem to concentrate on what's wrong with the youth of today. We believe there is a more balanced story to be told - and we'll be telling it over the next few weeks.

"The Craven Herald is delighted to give its full support to the Rotarians' splendid initiative."

Next week the Craven Herald will print a coupon with nomination details. An awards ceremony is scheduled for Saturday March 15 at Skipton's Rendezvous Hotel.