A HOST of organisations supporting young people in the North-East shared £13,000 at a prestigious awards ceremony.

It was the biggest sum ever handed out in the history of the High Sheriff Youth Awards.

Awards were handed out to 12 organisations by this year’s High Sheriff of Durham, Caroline Peacock, who described it as “a fabulous occasion”.

The ceremony took place in the magnificent setting of Wynyard Hall and was organised by County Durham Community Foundation, in partnership with Sir James Knott Trust, and with the support of Brewin Dolphin, Durham Constabulary, and the Office of the Police, Crime and Victim’s Commissioner, Ron Hogg.

The event was attended by a host of civic dignitaries, including: the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham, Sue Snowdon; president of CDCF, Sir Paul Nicholson; the High Sheriff for 2018-19 Dr Stephen Cronin; and many local Mayors. It was hosted by journalist and broadcaster Peter Barron.

Members of the Mini Police, from Cockton Hill Junior School in Bishop Auckland, provided a guard of honour and took to the stage to explain how proud they are to be part of Durham Constabulary.

Michelle Cooper, Chief Executive of CDCF, said: “ We are lucky to have so many brilliant organisations supporting young people, helping to keep our communities safe, and giving them an opportunity to demonstrate the confidence these awards give them has been fantastic.”

ROLL OF HONOUR

North-Eastern Prison After Care Service – North-East charity promoting a positive future for prisoners, offenders, and their relatives by supporting family ties throughout the criminal justice system.

Karen Liddle School of Dance – Inclusive not-for-profit community orientated dance and fitness studio based in Hartlepool and running for almost 30 years.

Thrive – Stockton-based organisation engaging with people directly affected by poverty.

Waddington Street Centre – Supporting adults recovering from, and at risk of, mental illness.

Wolsingham School Police Cadets – Attending local events to support policing priorities.

Durham Fire Station Young Firefighters Association - Providing young people with the opportunity to learn the values of the fire and rescue service.

Music At The Heart of Teesdale – Reviving local folk traditions through its national song archive, youth folk band, and Longsword Dancing programme.

Durham Association of Boys and Girls Clubs – Primarily working with young people from deprived inner cities and rural areas. Produced 52 national sporting champions over the past year.

Pelton Community Association – Supporting young people to benefit their local community and overcome hardship.

Rocsolid Ltd – Over the past year, has found safe accommodation for 50 young people, who were homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Exhibit 'A'rt t/a Spectrum Cultural Hub – Based in East Durham and engaging people from all backgrounds in art and learning opportunities.

Dawdon Youth and Community Centre – Running a variety of fun and inspiring youth sessions.