THE spotlight will shine on the outstanding achievements of youngsters in Warrington later this year when a landmark awards ceremony makes its debut.

Organised by the Guardian's own Speak Out youth group, the Young People's Awards (YPAs) aim to give deserved recognition to some of the more special achievements of Warrington's teenagers.

Anyone aged between 13 and 19 who goes to school or college in Warrington is eligible for nomination.

The awards will be handed out at the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Young People's Centre on July 25.

The categories are: Young Person of the Year, Academic Excellence, Fundraiser of the Year, Best Involved Young Person in their Community, Competing Against Adversity, Best Musician, Create Arts and Young Sports Personality of the Year.

They have been sponsored by the Guardian, Harry Cunningham, Warrington Town Centre Partnership, Warrington Borough Council, BNFL and Xencom Ltd.

The man behind the creation of the awards has been one of Speak Out's leading lights over the past fours years.

Stephen Green decided to organise the YPAs as one last gesture before leaving the group to go to university.

He said: "The awards are a way of recognising more young people's achievements and getting them known. I've had the experience of winning awards and I wanted to let other people share it, because there is nothing like it in the world.

"All the schools have responded fantastically and Kevin Ogden, chairman of the Warrington Town Centre Partnership, has been incredibly supportive."

Nomination forms are available from schools, youth clubs, Agenda 21 groups and the Speak Out webpage on the Guardian's website - www.thisiswarrington.co.uk