Proud to support inspirational young people

caption: Area Commander Tony Rogers of Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS speaking at the awards ceremony.

Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service was proud to be among the sponsors of the fantastic Young People of the Year (Yopey) Awards.

The fifth Bedfordshire and Luton Yopey awards were called the “Bluelight Yopeys” are so called because of the support of BLFRS, Bedfordshire Police and the local ambulance service. As always the awards attracted some outstanding entries. A final ten were selected for the awards ceremony held at The Mansion House, Old Warden Park, near Biggleswade.

The overall winner was Joanna Mayes, aged 19, who was nominated by Aragon Housing Association for her marvellous personal journey - overcoming personal problems prompted by bullying to become a football coach and inspiration to younger people. She was presented with a cheque for £1,000.

Second was Natalie Wilson, aged 23, who despite suffering from Downs Syndrome volunteers to help others almost every day. Natalie, who is from Dunstable, was once a student of Bedford College on a special NVQ course in “employability” skills - so it was fitting that her prize of £500 was presented by the Principal of Bedford College Ian Pryce.

Third prize went jointly to Stephanie Knight, aged 17, who was presented with her prize by the Mayor of Luton Cllr Tom Shaw and Scott Hayhurst, aged 22, who was given his prize by Cllr Peter Hollick of Central Bedfordshire Council.

The Junior Prize of £250 went Mo Ahktar, aged 15 of Luton. He is using rugby to help put others youngsters back on the right track and is a Gold Ambassador for the 2012 Olympics. He was presented with his prize by Area Commander Tony Rogers of Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service (BLFRS).

Said Tony: “This is the first Bluelight Yopey awards in Bedfordshire and last year BLFRS was the first Fire & Rescue Service to sponsor this now UK-wide project. We do much work with young people to keep them safe and hope our association with Yopey will help spread those important messages.”

The remaining five finalists were all also given £50 each thanks to the support of the sponsors: the Bluelight services, Bedford College, Central Beds Council, Luton Borough Council, Blue Arrow and Beds and Luton Community Foundation.

All cash prizes were donated on condition the recipients give half to a worthy cause - and keep half for themselves as a reward.

Nominations for future awards or young volunteers should go to www.yopey.org