THE deadline is fast approaching for young people across the Darlington area to be nominated for awards.

Entries have been flooding in for the Vibe Awards 2005, a scheme which celebrates the achievements of local youngsters.

A ceremony takes place at Darlington Civic Theatre on Monday, October 3, with dozens of young people, aged from eight to 19, due to pick up accolades.

The initiative is run by Darlington Borough Council's youth service and supported by The Northern Echo, Darlington Partnership and Alpha Radio. Individual award categories are being sponsored.

The categories are: contribution to the community eight to 12; contribution to the community 13 to 19; against all odds eight to 12; against all odds 13 to 19; outstanding achievement in sport eight to 12; outstanding achievement in sport 13 to 19; outstanding achievement in art eight to 12; outstanding achievement in art 13 to 19; outstanding achievement in drama/music eight to 12; outstanding achievement in drama/music 13 to 19; youth enterprise eight to 19.

The closing date for nominations is Wednesday, August 31, and forms should be sent to Vikki Newman, Darlington Youth Service, Darlington Town Hall.