TEENAGER Ben Watson is the toast of a dale community centre because of the remarkable contribution he has made to youth work.

For his dedication in taking part and helping others enjoy youth activities at Stanhope Community Centre, in Weardale, 14-year-old Ben has been presented with the coveted Bell Robson Trophy.

The trophy was first presented six years ago in memory of Mrs Robson, who spent more than 15 years encouraging young people to take part in leisure and sporting activities. She carried on with this work up to her death at the age of 80.

"Bell was a wonderful woman who inspired others to help youngsters," said Billy Hunt, who runs the youth programmes at the centre. "She never stopped sending young people to the centre to join in. She was a very special person."

It was appropriate, he said, that Ben, who lives at Frosterley, should receive the award as he had shown he was not only prepared to take part in activities, but also help with repairs to the centre and delivering leaflets.

"He has shown he is prepared to give back as much as he takes out of the centre," said Mr Hunt.

"We are very proud of him."

Ben was presented with the trophy by Sue Turnbull, Durham County co-ordinator of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, who also handed out certificates to youngsters taking part in the scheme.