TOWN MP Barbara Follett is urging people in Stevenage to nominate young people who they know have made a positive impact to the community for the prestigious Philip Lawrence Award. Named in honour of the late headteacher Philip Lawrence, who was fatally s

TOWN MP Barbara Follett is urging people in Stevenage to nominate young people who they know have made a positive impact to the community for the prestigious Philip Lawrence Award.

Named in honour of the late headteacher Philip Lawrence, who was fatally stabbed outside his school in 1995, the awards recognise the outstanding achievements of young people aged 11 to 20 who have inspired and made a difference to their lives and those of others in their community.

This year's awards are being run by the children's charity Catch 22, in partnership with the Home Office and Department for Children, Schools and Families. Entries will be open across the UK - with those successful receiving a �1,000 award to invest in their project.

Mrs Follett said: "In the 12 years I have been Member of Parliament for Stevenage, I have been fully aware of the fantastic work young people do in our community - they deserve our support and our recognition.

"That is why I am asking residents to get involved with these awards and nominate some of our local youngsters."

Last year, Mrs Follett met with one of Stevenage's many young activists, Megan Fletcher, at a 10 Downing Street reception, hosted by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, which celebrated the significant contribution made by young people across the country.

Megan was chosen for her work with Community Crew - a Stevenage-based organisation which is aimed at 11 to 16-year-olds who want to make a difference where they live.

Nominations for the Philip Lawrence Awards are open to everyone and the closing date for entries is Monday, September 28. Information on how to nominate can be found at www.philiplawrenceawards.net