The tragic murder of Headteacher Philip Lawrence in December 1995 was a terrible and shocking event that many remember well.
In his life, Philip Lawrence had inspired many young people and this can be maintained despite his senseless loss. In 1997 the Philip Lawrence Awards were established to commemorate his deeply held conviction that all young people are capable of achieving great things.
The Awards honour the achievements of young people who are having a positive impact on their communities, their lives and others. The annual Awards are for the most inspiring and innovative work led by young people aged 11-20.
Not only will winners have the recognition that they are among the most inspiring young people nationwide, but they will also receive a cash prize to help them develop their work.
Young people are often in the press for the wrong reasons - getting into bother, causing trouble, joblessness.
As a local public representative, however, I often have the opportunity to see the much more positive reality which is overshadowed by the negative headlines concerning a small minority.
There are countless exceptional young people across Gateshead who give freely of their time and energy to making a positive difference in our communities.
The awards scheme is not only looking for winners but is enrolling young people in running the awards programme: doing everything from publicising it and attracting sponsors to helping judge the winners and helping out on the day.
There will also be opportunities for young people to gain recognised qualifications on the back of the work they are doing in their communities.
The closing date for this year's awards is 28th September. Perhaps you know of young people who deserve recognition for their contribution to their community, who are promoting respect between and understanding of faiths, cultures and communities or who help promote active citizenship, crime reduction or community safety.
Newcastle Chronicle and Journal
| Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT |