THE achievements of scores of young people were celebrated at a prestigious awards ceremony last night.

The first Positive Young People Awards were held at Darlington Civic Theatre, compered by the editor of The Northern Echo, Peter Barron, and member of Darlington's youth parliament, James Gilbey.

More than 100 youngsters were honoured during the evening for their contribution to the arts, education and the community.

Readers of The Northern Echo nominated young people for the awards, which were presented in three categories - outstanding achievement, contribution to the community and against all odds.

The first award went to Darlington's very own Pop Idol, Zoe Birkett, who came fourth in the national TV competition which launched Gareth Gates and Will Young to fame.

Zoe is currently on the road starring in the Pop Idol tour.

A host of other presentations were made to youngsters from the Darlington area who have made a difference.

Mr Barron said: "The event was a celebration of youngsters' contributions to the community and also a celebration of young talent."

As well as the presentation of awards, the evening included performances by youngsters from the Stagecoach stage school.

Awards were given to a number of brave youngsters who have overcome personal challenges and ill health to lead normal lives.

These included Kirsty Laing and her brother, Barry, from Haughton. Kirsty helped her brother to escape from a fire, last year. Despite sustaining burns to his legs, Barry refuses to let the fact he is in a wheelchair interfere with his life.

Another sister and brother duo to be honoured were seven-year-old Rachel Stubbs and her brother, Michael.

Rachel was born with an intestinal disorder and has to be fed through a tube. In spite of her health problems, she lives a normal life and still argues with her elder brother, who was at the Civic to pick up his sister's award for her.

The event was sponsored by The Northern Echo, the Darlington Partnership, Peer Support 2000, Darlington Borough Council, the County Durham and Tees Valley Learning and Skills Councils, Stagecoach, M&Ms and Starburst.

* More pictures in tomorrow's Northern Echo