A GROUP of students have been awarded for the commitment and support they have shown to their peers.

TARGET (Talk and Reassure Get Everyone Together) was set up last year at Bishop Auckland College to help students feel comfortable and gain confidence while attending the college.

Those who enrolled have since taken part in a host of activities that have seen them work with agencies including the Dales Primary Care Trust and Connexions.

This week, the students were given recognition for their work during an awards ceremony at the college.

Catherine Shaw, from the Student Support Centre, said: "The uptake on the scheme was phenomenal and many students and staff have found the service the group provided very useful."

Each member was given a Peer Support certificate and those who had collected 100 and 200 volunteer hours received a Millennium Volunteer Certificate.

Five students received special awards to mark their achievements.

Stuart Lawton, 19, from Bishop Middleham, was named as Peer Supporter of the Year and Team Choice Member of the Year.

Iam Fell, 18, from Spennymoor, was rewarded for his Outstanding Commitment.

Marc Shearer, 19, from Spennymoor was named as Improved Peer Supporter and Robert Parkin, 18, from Crook and Tracy Caygill, 18, from Evenwood were given a Merit for Exceptional Dedication.

Miss Shaw said: "All those involved in the scheme are very proud to have worked with such a brilliant group of young people.''