A YOUTH worker has been nominated for a national award for her contribution to the development of young people.

Karen Duncan, 37, Cleveland Fire Brigade's Prince's Trust team leader, has been nominated for the Prince's Trust Celebrate Success Awards 2005/2006.

The award recognises individuals who have supported the development of young people through their leadership.

The brigade's Prince's Trust team was set up a year ago to help young people in the area make the most of their opportunities.

Mrs Duncan, who lives in Guisborough, and her colleagues have set up three teams so far with 27 of the 35 participants achieving a nationally-recognised City and Guilds qualification.

The teams, made up of people aged 16 to 30, are together for 12 weeks while they engage in activities to help them gain confidence, interpersonal skills and to have fun.

Team members include ex-offenders, those in care or leaving care, long-term unemployed and people with mental health problems.

A brigade spokesman said: "Karen was inspired to help the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Appeal and with the support of her students helped get more than 30 people on the register.

"She has organised a fun day for the children of the Chernobyl disaster, she has supported the local community by completing several community projects with the team and has helped raise awareness of fire safety.

"She deserves to win and we are behind her all the way."