IF you know a young person who has achieved something fantastic and deserves recognition, then you can nominate them for the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards.

The awards, in their eighth year, are run by your Weekly News, the Rotary Club of Taunton and BBC Somerset.

Every year we hear some incredible stories of bravery, triumphs over adversity, spectacular feats and simple acts of kindness.

Rotarian Peter Renshaw said: “Over the years we have seen many examples of outstanding young people from across Somerset.

“We are always keen to support young people and celebrate their achievements.”

Thanks to sponsorship from Somerset College, Avon and Somerset Police and, for the first time this year, Prospects, a prize fund has been made possible.

All we need now is for YOU to nominate young people under the age of 20 who deserve a pat on the back - and some cash in the bank - for their outstanding efforts.

The awards will be presented at a ceremony hosted by BBC Somerset’s Emma Britton at Somerset College's Conference Centre in Taunton – which is being given for the night by the college – on March 6.

For more details click on www.burnhamandhighbridgeweeklynews.co.uk/youth_awards 

NOMINATING someone special for the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards is easy.

The awards are not split into categories – we just want to hear about young people who have shown that extra spirit to do something exceptional, whatever it may be.

It could be achievement in sport and music or caring for others and the environment – or perhaps even a one-off act of heroism.

Nominees must be under the age of 20 on March 6, 2015, and they must live in Somerset.

Send the nominee's full name, age, school/college – where appropriate – postal address, contact phone number(s) and a maximum of 200 words on their achievements to newsdesk@ countygazette.co.uk, putting the words Youth Awards in the subject heading – and do not forget to include your own name and contact details.

Entries can also be posted to ‘Youth Awards’, Somerset County Gazette, St James' Street, Taunton TA1 1JR or youngsters can be nominated online at www.burnhamandhighbridgeweeklynews.co.uk/youth_awards.

Please notify the nominee – or their parents, where appropriate – so they are aware that you have put them forward.

The deadline for nominations is the end of Thursday, February 5.

After that the judges will meet and the winners will be invited with two representatives to the presentation ceremony.