YOUNGSTERS across the borough of Stockton are being rewarded for caring for their area.

Last September, Stockton Borough Council joined forces with Hollywood Bowl at Teesside Park, to run a litter reward scheme around a number of school sites.

Pupils who were seen by council staff using bins to dispose of their litter were handed a voucher which they could use to get two bowling games for the price of one.

The idea behind the project was to encourage the youngsters not to throw their rubbish on the streets.

During the three months from September to the end of November, more than 200 vouchers were handed out to pupils from participating schools.

In an attempt to reward a few more of the pupils included in the scheme, who have shown they are prepared to go the extra mile and act responsibly in and around their schools, the council and Hollywood Bowl ran a special bowling tournament for youngsters yesterday.

As well showing off their bowling skills, the youngsters also put their green knowledge to the test in an environmental quiz.

Councillor Geoff Field, the council's cabinet member for environment, said: "All the youngsters deserve a great deal of credit for the consideration they have shown for their schools and communities."

The schools taking part were Northfield, Bishopsgarth, Blakeston, Conyers, Ian Ramsey CE Aided Comprehensive, St Patrick's RC Comprehensive and Thornaby Community schools.