Eight North East youngsters have been praised for their dedicated work and achievements in their communities during a prestigious awards ceremony on March 30.

Durham Area Youth welcomed over two hundred guests to Rainton Arena for a night celebrating the work of young people from Pittington, Sherburn Village, Sherburn Hill, West Rainton and Great Lumley.

Featuring entertainment from a local performer and a Greatest Showman themed flash-mob, the night highlighted the work of projects and youth groups from 2022.

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Emily Burns, Chief Executive of Durham Area Youth, has praised the young people for showing society what they can do.

She said: “The awards night idea came from our young people who wanted to celebrate success and showcase what young people can do.

The Northern Echo: Two young attendees enjoying the night.Two young attendees enjoying the night. (Image: DURHAM AREA YOUTH)

“At DAY our young people are active both inside and outside or youth sessions with volunteering, social action projects and campaigning so it’s only right we celebrate and reward this with a special evening designed by young people, for young people.”

A highlight of the awards night was when 13-year-old Aimee Adamson won the Molly Patterson Special Recognition Award.

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The award recognises a young person who has displayed leadership, inspired others and made a difference in their communities, in memory of Molly Patterson who suddenly died whilst on a family holiday.

The charity, also celebrating its 5th anniversary, has worked with over five-hundred people since 2018 and delivers weekly sessions for young people in the region.

Stephen Davison, Youth Manager said: “It was an inspirational and empowering evening giving our young people a boost of ambition and confidence to do more and be more.”