YOUNG people and the unsung volunteers who work with them will get the chance to scoop a prestigious trophy when the Gold Star Awards return for 2015.

This will be the ninth year that South Somerset District Council has organised the awards which aim to showcase the breadth of talented, caring and hardworking young people as well as the volunteers who enable them to reach their full potential.

Steve Barnes, young peoples officer at South Somerset District Council, said: “So many people put in hours of their own time to help young people in South Somerset and the Gold Star Awards celebrates the incredible work that they do as well as the remarkable young people themselves.

“The show will take place at the Octagon Theatre on Tuesday, October 27, and although there are ten awards to give out, the trophies are only a small part of what the Gold Star Awards are all about.

“This event aims to inspire other young people and volunteers by showing what a difference they can make to their communities and we are urging people to nominate their unsung hero now.

“As part of the event we will also be showcasing the talent of local young people. Before the awards are handed out we will have short performances from groups including Castle Cary Amateur Theatrical Society and Infinity Martial Arts.”

The council’s leisure and culture spokesman, Cllr Sylvia Seal, said: “Year round we support young people and the volunteers who work with them through training and financial support. For us the Gold Star Awards is a perfect way to reward the unsung heroes who go about their business without fuss but who make such a difference.