YOUNG people who have been getting into work through a council scheme have been recognised at an awards ceremony celebrating their efforts.

The Durham Works Achievement Awards, organised by Durham County Council, took place at Ramside Hall, near Durham.

The winners were Stephen Bee, who won the achievement though work prize, Rabiaa Al Hassoun, for overcoming diversity and Tom Makepeace and Melissa McClaren, who were named as “inspirational individuals”.

Consett business Dunlop BTL and Parkin and Denewood, based in Newton Aycliffe,also won awards while the prize for inspirational mentor went to Mary Stevenson, from Citizens Advice County Durham.

Councillor Olwyn Gunn, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “The awards event was a fabulous evening and it was a real privilege to meet these incredible young people and hear their stories.”

“It is also a great opportunity to thank all of the employers who support DurhamWorks and enable the council to provide such a worthwhile project.”

DurhamWorks is a partnership programme led by Durham County Council and funded by the EU social fund.