BY HANNAH GRAHAM

YOUNG achievers attended the first ever Dorset PCC Youth Awards evening at Hamworthy Social Club to celebrate their success within their local community.

The awards had three categories: Youth Group of the Year, Individual Young Person Award and the PCC Award for Excellence, which is chosen from the nominees of the previous two awards.

The award winners included Crystal Lily Mills for her outstanding achievements and involvement in so many youth projects for the county including The Budmouth College mentoring group that help to stamp out bullying and help with the transition for the new year groups.

The PCC Award for Excellence was awarded to Ben Howard from Lychett Minster School for his contributions to his community and local council. Other nominees included Dorset Youth Council (DYCE), The Bournemouth YMCA groups, and many more young people who have made fantastic changes and contributions to their schools, communities and shown the dedication they have towards finding a voice for young people.

The award ceremony itself was a fantastic evening, with a speech from Martyn Underhill, who expressed his gratitude towards the young people who attended.

As a member of the nominated group DYCE, I met so many amazing people who have made such a difference in their local area and I was honoured to be a part of this amazing event that gives recognition to young people who might otherwise be deterred from getting involved in youth groups.