YOUNG heroes were honoured for their outstanding achievements at the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards on Friday night.

Proud parents and supporters gathered to watch 23 awards and prize money presented to young people at Somerset College’s Conference Centre in Taunton, which was given free for the evening.

Winners were presented with their prizes by award sponsors in a ceremony hosted by Emma Britton of BBC Somerset.

The awards are run by your Chard and Ilminster News, Rotary International and BBC Somerset.

They were sponsored by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Avon and Somerset Constabulary, Somerset Cricket Museum and Taunton Rotary Club.

News editor Alex Cameron said: “It was an honour to be among so many young people who have achieved so much. They all have amazing stories to tell and are an example to us all.

“Congratulations to all those who took part and thank you to our sponsors for supporting the awards.”

VIP guests on the night included the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Lady Gass, Somerset County Council chairman David Fothergill, Taunton Deane Mayor Libby Lisgo, Taunton Deane MP Jeremy Browne, Somerset College principal Rachel Davies and Amy Hurst, youth, health and wellbeing champion of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

ertificates of commendation will soon be sent to many more young people who were nominated.