JUDGES have started to sift through more than 100 nominations for a youth awards scheme to find those who most deserve recognition for their contributions to society.

Last-minute nominations for the Sedgefield Awards for Sensational Youth (Sasy) will still be accepted until the new year.

But with a rush of top- quality entries being sent to organisers this month, judges have already started to draw up shortlists for the 11 categories.

The Sasy scheme was launched by Sedgefield Borough Council earlier this year to celebrate outstanding achievements by local people 21-years-old or younger.

Individual and group awards were created to recognise the top sports person, club, arts worker, carer, school sports team, volunteer and learner of 2006.

There are also awards for special achievement, an unsung hero, special member of the community and an amateur video clip.

Ian Davey, sports development officer, said: "We have had a really good response, especially in the last few weeks.

"The deadline is December 31, but I'll accept anything that arrives at the council offices by January 4 when I return to work after the holidays.

"There have been great nominations across the board - the club and sports categories include some amazing projects and achievements including international champions.

"But just as important are the people we may not have known about and would never have been recognised without Sasy, such as young learners and volunteers."

The scheme has won the support of a series of agencies that work with young people and representatives from each sit on the judging panel.

The Northern Echo is supporting the authority in its Sasy 2006 initiative.

There will also be full coverage of the nomination shortlists and an Oscars-style awards ceremony in spring.

Nomination forms appear opposite or online at www.sedgefield.gov.uk/sasy For more details call 01388- 816166.