WOULD-BE film-makers of tomorrow have shown they already have what it takes to make their mark in the world of television.

Youngsters aged 13 to 18 took part in the first Thirsk Young Film-Makers Festival, at the town's voluntary-run Ritz Cinema.

After a series of workshops, they produced a 20-minute video film and 12 animated shorts, which were shown at the cinema last November and have since been screened at both Teesside and Newcastle universities.

Now their efforts have been further rewarded - with recognition from the Royal Television Society.

The youngsters have each been presented with certificates of merit by the organisation, one of the leading groups in the median and arts world.

"The youngsters put a lot of work into their films and they deserve all the success they have had," said the Ritz's volunteer co-ordinator Gerry Allen.

Last year's festival was the first of its kind but another is now planned for later this year and it is hoped it will become an annual event.