COMPETITION for this year's Young Country Person of the Year to be named at Moreton Show on Saturday, September 3, is hotting up.

Run by Strutt & Parker's Moreton office, the award is aimed at encouraging enthusiasm and commitment from young people in the countryside.

Whatever their activity, from beekeeping and toad patrol to gamekeeping and wildlife protection, organisers want to hear from young people.

Emma Bishop, of Strutt & Parker's estate agency department, said: During the past year the countryside, and more specifically country sports, has been at the forefront of the political agenda. We believe that the countryside and the very diverse range of activity that can be enjoyed there should be promoted much more to young people."

She said: "Children should not spend all their time in front of the TV or their computers. We want to hear about young people out there enjoying a wide range of country pursuits."

Entry requirements are simple. Youngsters need to be aged between 10 and 18 and take part in a countryside activity or hobby.

All entrants are required to write a letter explaining why they feel they deserve to win the title of Young Country Person 2005, submitted with photographs and an application form to Strutt & Parker, Fosse House, High Street, Moreton, Gloucestershire GL56 OLH.

For more details, call 01608 650502 or email young.persons@struttandparker.co.uk.

The closing date is July 20 and awards will be presented during a special ceremony at Moreton Show.