THIS week, 15 years ago, a group of Durham teenagers were honoured with Prince’s Trust Awards for their work in the community.

Students at Gilesgate Sports College received silver and bronze awards for being involved in a wide range of community activities over that year.

Among the community work, the 28 year ten and 11 students had obtained a £5,000 grant to produce a water garden feature, supporting local nursery schools, fundraising work and participated in sessions run by the police and local charities, including the National Canine Defence League.

Youth worker Keely Fingleton, who worked closely with the team, said the awards were fully deserved.

"They have all worked extremely hard over the past year, and their efforts have had a very positive effect on the local community," she said.

The awards were presented by Durham County Council's education director, Keith Mitchell.

Meanwhile, a slippery escape artist surprised residents when it left its home to explore the great outdoors.

A Taiwanese beauty snake was spotted near a group of children on a street corner in Northallerton, slinking along Meadow Lane.

Police were called to retrieve the 5ft snake, where he was initially placed in a dustbin until he could be collected by the RSPCA.

The snake ended up taking temporary residence in Askham Bryan College's Animal Management Unit, near York, where keeper Dave Butchart said it was restless but harmless.

He said: "He is certainly a frisky little beast, but not at all dangerous. In fact, many people keep these species of 'rat snakes' as pets. They are well known for being daredevil escape artists who can squeeze through the smallest of gaps.

"He is very pretty to look at, and by his good condition I imagine he has an owner out there who wants to know where he is."