TWO youngsters were honoured at an awards event.

The talented pair were invited to the district Rotary Youth Showcase in Taunton to be presented with trophies to mark their achievement.

Casterbridge Rotary Club hosts local competitions, and a number of young people have had success recently in the district and even national heats.

Tallulah Taschner, 11, won the junior category in the local heat of the Young Writers competition, which was held at Waterstones Dorchester.

The Sunninghill pupil went on to win her category in the district competition and also received ‘highly commended’ in the Rotary International Britain and Ireland (RIBI) national competition.

Diana Apps chairman of youth and vocational services at Casterbridge Rotary, said: “We are very proud of her achievements.”

Young chef Nik Jones was also honoured at the showcase – but as he was unwell he was unable to attend the event and Mrs Apps collected it on his behalf.

The Thomas Hardye pupil won over judges at the district final in Highbridge with his menu of seared scallops on squid ink risotto, venison loin with kale and blackberry sauce and cherry and chocolate cake, and made it through to the regional final in Shaftesbury, which was held in April.

The Rotary Club offers a number of competitions for young people and awards at the youth showcase were handed out for winners in photography, debating, citizenship and expeditions.

Making the most of her writing skills, Tallulah was invited to be a reporter for the evening, and produced an article to show off the successes of the region’s young people.

Writing in the article, Tallulah said the event ‘really had something for everyone’.

She added: “It was so very entertaining and brilliantly directed to congratulate all those taking part, and whilst light-hearted I would say it left us all proud and inspired to try and make it back again next year.”

For more information on Casterbridge Rotary Club, visit their Facebook page or website at www.casterbridgerotary.org.uk