CASH prizes of up to £20,000 are up for grabs in a national competition open to the region's schools.

As part of the Barclays New Futures education award scheme, schools are being invited to come up with a creative and original idea to tackle an issue of importance to young people in their community.

Those to benefit this year include Beaumont Hill School and Technology College in Darlington, which caters for young people with special needs. It is using its £3,000 to develop an unused area of the school into a recreational garden and meeting place for students and visitors.

Ferryhill School, Ferryhill, County Durham, received £3,000 to set up a monthly community newspaper, while Seaham School, east Durham, was awarded £7,000 for a project to raise the confidence and motivation of pupils transferring from local primary schools to the secondary school.

The scheme offers 150 awards, ranging from £500 to £20,000. Any secondary school, sixth form college, or special school can apply. Past winners have addressed issues including bullying, drugs awareness and improving literacy standards.

For details on how to apply call 020 7221 7883 or visit the Barclays New Futures website at www.barclaysnewfutures.co.uk. The closing date for applications is December 14.