GOOD-hearted youngsters from the Malvern Hills area were rewarded for their efforts at a special ceremony in Worcester.

Four locals were among 48 the winners of Worcestershire County Council's first Young Stars awards.

Eighteen-year-old Malvern Youth Centre members Charlie Davies and Lee Bicker, known as Bic, received service to the community awards.

Youth worker Sarah Newman nominated them.

"Bic is a real model to the other young people. He's quite cool," she said.

"He shows others you can respect the rules and still have fun."

"Charlie has developed in herself and is a lot more aware and willing to help shape other young people.

"She is really active, welcoming and friendly within the youth zone."

Some of the other youngsters rewarded in the scheme are behind plans to set up a skate park and youth cafe in Malvern. The TG's project was set up in memory of skateboarder Tim Greenwood, who died from leukaemia last year.

Martin Reed-Darby, 17, has been involved in the TGs project from the outset and arranged a band to play at the youth forum held in February.

He also spoke at the forum in front of all the organisations that attended.

Mark Sunter, 17, is responsible for the TG's website which he set up and maintains in his own time.

Thomas Hern, 14, a pupil at the chase heard about TGs and organised his own baking sale to raise funds for the project, raising a total of £58.

Rachel Smith, TG's project co-ordinator, nominated the boys.

She said: "It's really good these young people have committed to the project. We just wanted to recognise what they've done."

Jonti Hylands, 13, from Upton, received a sports award for his skill at cricket. Malvern Hills district councillor Mary Wilkinson nominated him.

Jeanette Davy, chairman of the Malvern Hills Youth Strategy group, attended the ceremony at County Hall, Worcester, on April 24, where county council chairman Edward Sheldon presented the awards.

"I enjoyed it and I thought it went very well. The parents were appreciative and there was great feedback," she said.