YOUNGSTERS who show respect for others are to be rewarded by a community.

The West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust is introducing a new category Young Person of the Year in its third annual Community Awards event.

Trust chairwoman Joan Ford said: "There is so much negative publicity about young people and this is one way of trying to redress the balance.

"It costs nothing to be nice and we know west Middlesbrough is teeming with positive young people, always ready to greet people with a smile and a polite word, who will hold the door open for you and help people in a whole range of other ways that often go unnoticed.

"We want to recognise these young stars - who show respect for others and earn it in return through their behaviour - as well as our other local heroes."

The trust is also looking for sponsorship from local businesses to support the awards. Firms can sponsor an award, or just make a general contribution to the overall event.