THE hunt is on to find this year's new crop of community leaders and young visionaries in an award scheme aimed to recognise, encourage and reward the achievements of young local people, reports Lisa Frascarelli.

The Kendal and District Young Citizen of the Year Award, organised by The Castle Green Hotel and supported by The Westmorland Gazette, is now in its second year and is searching for today's young achievers.

The event is open to anyone under 21 - especially those aged between 16-21- living in South Lakeland and entrants must be in full-time employment, training or at school.

The contest covers five criteria, which includes scholastic achievements, community involvement and sporting prowess and the contest is judged by five prominent members of the community, including Kendal mayor Avril Dobson.

The lucky winner will receive £1,000, which must go towards education - which could include travelling - and two runners-up will receive £50 at the prize-giving dinner on November 19 at the Castle Green Hotel.

Entrants must be sponsored by their employer, school, association or organisation, and must show how they would constructively spend the prize money should they win.

Application forms are available from The Westmorland Gazette and the Castle Green Hotel and completed forms should be sent to Jane Allan, Castle Green Hotel, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 6BH.

For further information applicants can call event co-ordinator Jane Allan on 01539-797005.