Young people rewarded

Young people from Hertsmere were recognised and rewarded for their special contributions to their local community at the 2007 Watford and Hertsmere Young People of the Year Award.

Mayor Councillor Martin Heywood was invited to the ceremony, held in Watford on Sunday, and youngsters recognised from Hertsmere at this year's event included:

Clare Turton, 13, from Borehamwood who has overcome many personal difficulties to help both her school and local community.

Wes Roe, 16 and Thom O'Neil, 18, both from Potters Bar who have organised several local concerts to raise money for African schools.

Dani Bailey, 24, from Potters Bar, a dedicated Guide leader who leads three units.

Nick Murphy, 19, from Potters Bar who volunteers to run his brother's local football team.

Waz Godin, 12, from Potters Bar who helps many causes despite a rare life-threatening health problem.

Michael Perham, 14, from Potters Bar the youngest person to sail single-handed across the Atlantic

Talya Jacobson, 12, from Radlett who rose above disability to raise more than £15,000 for good causes.

Mayor Heywood said: "Hertsmere Borough Council was delighted to support such a worthwhile event. All the young people attending the ceremony are a credit to their parents, school and community and they should be extremely proud of their achievements."

All the youngsters received certificates acknowledging their special contributions. Overall winner was Tayla Jacobson who won Junior Young Person of the Year for Hertsmere and Watford.

The event is organised by Young People of the Year (see www.youngpeopleoftheyear.org).