A group of teenagers from Middlesbrough, Redcar and Stockton have been rewarded for the research they conducted into their peers' views on issues affecting their lives.

A group of 22 youngsters aged between 13 and 16 presented their findings at an awards ceremony held at the University of Teesside last week.

They were trained as researchers by staff at the Children's Society, as part of an initiative funded by the charity and the University of Teesside.

Using research techniques including a Big Brother-style diary room interviews and a dance event called Sound Off, they asked about young people's lives, leisure, education, youth inclusion programmes, and the area where they live.

They found that young people were concerned about crime, vandalism, drugs, gangs, bullying and stranger danger. Some were so concerned they wanted to move away from their neighbourhoods.

A main complaint was the lack of activities and a need for cheaper bus fares and affordable leisure centres.

The Children's Society's project leader, Keith Munro, said: "It is important that young people are able to participate in research which can help us understand their concerns and how best to provide the services they need."