Young hopefuls still have two weeks to submit entry forms for The Young Citizen of the Year competition - and try to win the £1,000 prize money.

The award, which is organised by The Castle Green Hotel in Kendal and supported by The Westmorland Gazette, aims to find the next generation of community leaders and young achievers.

It is open to anyone under 21 living in South Lakeland who is in full-time employment, training or at school and covers five criteria including community involvement and sporting prowess.

Last year's winner Dianne Thexton impressed the five-strong judging panel with her commitment to community safety.

The 18-year-old Kendalian was nominated by her Kirkbie Kendal School head teacher David Smart and Kendal and Westmorland Rotary Club because of her tireless involvement in Slipstream - the youth community safety group based in Kendal.

Diane, who left school with A levels in Law and Information Communication Technology, is a major force within the group, which has this year been targeting the issue of anti-social behaviour in South Lakeland schools.

She is now biding her time until she can apply to join the police, a career she has always dreamed of.

"Hopefully, in December, I will join Cumbria Police Force.

It is something I have always wanted to do.

I like working with people, the community specifically.

It is important for me to serve the public and to try to make a difference."

Diane has spent her £1,000 prize money wisely - putting it towards first aid classes and supporting her passion, Slipstream.

She feels that the accolade - Young Citizen of the Year - is a real bonus.

"The award is a great thing to have.

It was a really enjoyable experience and it looks great on your CV."

Entry forms are available from The Westmorland Gazette and The Castle Green Hotel.

For further information, telephone Jane Allan on 01539-797005.