YOUNG achievers from across the region were honoured at a glittering ceremony last night - and even received a personal message of congratulations from the Prime Minister.

Tony Blair told of his delight at the efforts of the youngsters, as 500 guests gathered for the annual Tees Valley Celebration of Learning Awards.

The ceremony, at Tall Trees in Yarm, was a huge success, with determined young people, aged 13 to 24, recognised in a range of categories.

The event was organised by the Learning and Skills Council, Connexions Tees Valley and Jobcentre Plus.

Winners were announced in a variety of fields, from engineering and business to four special accolades.

The Special Achiever, Young Achiever, Friend Achiever and Family Achiever categories were all put to the public vote.

And the winner of The Northern Echo-sponsored family category, with almost 2,000 votes, had one of the most emotional tales of the night.

Romeela Shahnaz Rana-Rahman, of Middleton St George, near Darlington, was nominated for her dedication to her family.

At the age of 16, she cares for her disabled mother, as well as her brother and sister. Despite the pressures, she attained mostly A* grades in her GCSEs and is now aiming for a career in medicine.

The winner of the special achiever award also touched the hearts of the judges.

Aisha Hussain, 18, of Middlesbrough, has been blind since birth and relies on Braille texts for her studies.

She came to the UK at the age of five and spoke little English, but has gone on to achieve straight grade As in her AS Level exams.

Pam Eccles, executive director of the Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley, said: "Thousands of votes were cast for the awards and this proves how much young people admire their peers."

Dave Irwin, acting chief executive of Connexions Tees Valley, said: "The support we have had from businesses, schools, colleges and learning providers across the area has again been phenomenal."