YOUNGSTERS who have shown bravery, determination and commitment to their communities have been recognised with Shrievalty Awards.

A group of 35 youngsters from the county gathered for the award ceremony held at Durham Castle.

The young people received their certificates from the High Sheriff of Durham, Andrew Martell.

They also received gift vouchers from Peter Rowley, chairman of the Durham Agency Against Crime.

The youngsters were nominated for the awards by family members, police officers, teachers and community organisations.

Katy Banner, Amy Robinson, Joanne Conning and Carla Gibson - all pupils at Durham's Gilesgate Sports College - were recognised for their tireless work with the elderly.

Darlington teenagers Graham Mitchell, Matthew Fleming, David Ancell and Alistair Taylor received awards for their work in forming a crime prevention panel.

Charlotte Purdham, of Bishop Auckland, was recognised for her charity fundraising efforts.

Chief Inspector Tim Wilson, DAAC chief executive, said: "All the nominees have put something back in the community.

"The young people have shown great personal bravery, or made a difference in some other way.

"The awards are now in their seventh year, and it is heartening to see so many young people being nominated."