AN annual awards event for youngsters in Stockton borough is to take place this week to commemorate their many achievements over the past year.

Scores of youngsters aged up to 19 were nominated for this year's Stockton Mayor's Achievement Recognition Trophy (Smart) Awards, and each will be presented with a certificate to mark their nomination.

They have been nominated by parents, family, friends and teachers for their hard work, efforts and achievements.

The winners of the ten trophies for the categories have been chosen by a panel of young people, drawn from schools across the borough.

They have been nominated for awards in categories such as volunteering in the community, education effort and achievement, bravery, the arts and sport.

The ceremony will take place at the Arc centre, in Stockton, tomorrow.

The Smart awards were set up by a former mayor of Stockton and have been supported by Councillor Ann Cains, this year's mayor.

She said: "This is a special event for me. I think it is so important we stress the good things young people do in this borough.

"We often hear of young people who cause trouble, but these awards are a way of showing there are many young people who work hard and improve lives for others, and it is a great opportunity for their friends, family, teachers and me to say well done and thank you to them."