YOUNGSTERS who have undertaken acts of outstanding courage, generosity and community spirit are set to be acknowledged with an awards scheme

West Mercia Constabulary is appealing to residents to nominate people for its Good Citizen Awards initiative.

The closing date for nominations is Friday, May 27 and the force is looking for people to nominate those aged 18 and under who have made an outstanding contribution to their community in the past year.

Sergeant John Dickinson, who runs the award scheme, is keen to ensure all young people who deserve this special recognition for their actions are nominated.

"We really want to hear about any young people who've made a difference to other people's lives," he said.

The awards have recognised a whole host of incredible acts of courage and generosity by young people in the force area since they were introduced in 1987.

Small groups of no more than three young people may also be nominated for an award.

To be eligible for nomination, acts of good citizenship must have taken place between July 1 2004 and May 27 2005.

The awards are presented by police in partnership with local councils and those selected by the judges will be invited to attend award ceremonies in June and July.

Ten nominees are then put forward for the force's Good Citizen of the Year award, presented at an evening hosted by Chief Constable Paul West at the force headquarters, Hindlip Hall, near Worcester, in October.

Those shortlisted for Good Citizen of the Year will receive a prize and £50 in cash, with the overall winner receiving a trophy and an extra £100 to be shared equally with a charity of their choice.

Nomination forms have been sent to schools and libraries across the force area and are available on line at: www.westmercia.police.uk and Sergeant John Dickinson on 01905 331535.

They should be returned by no later than Friday, May 27.