PEOPLE are being encouraged to nominate sporty youngsters for the annual Darlington sports winners scheme.

The awards recognise sporting achievement from all local enthusiasts, whatever their level, over the past 12 months.

The categories in this year's awards are, for those aged eight to 18: young sports achiever, special achievement award - for those who succeed against all the odds, team/club award and the service to sport award - for those who coach/assist eight to 18-year-olds in sports.

A committee of volunteers from Darlington run the scheme and select the award winners. Nominations can be made over the next few months.

In May, there will be awards for swimming, football, martial arts, squash and badminton and the closing date for entries is Friday, May 6.

In June and July, there will be awards for tennis, boxing, table tennis, gymnastics and orienteering. The nomination closing date is Friday, June 24.

In September and October, there will be awards for athletics, cricket, cycling, netball and basketball. The closing date for suggestions is Friday, September 16.

In October and November, there will be hockey, volleyball, rugby, skating and golf awards and the closing date for nominations is Friday, October 21.

Nominations can be made in any month for sports not listed. All the presentations will be held at the Dolphin Centre central hall.

The winners from each month go through to the final on Thursday, December, 8.

If there is someone you would like to nominate or you would like to get involved yourself, telephone Paul Foreman on (01325) 388407 for a nomination form and further information.

Alternatively, you can make a nomination on-line via www.communigate.co.uk/ne /dsws