THIS year's Pride of Somerset Youth Awards are being supported by two dedicated organisations, intent on recognising young people's achievements and successes.

Founded by the Rotary Club of Taunton, the awards were created to honour the amazing achievements of young individuals throughout the county.

This could be in a wide range of areas, including sport, academia or personal endeavours. 

The awards are being supported by a whole host of sponsors, including Bridgwater and Taunton College and the Rotary Club of Taunton.

For the college, which has centres in Taunton, Bridgwater and Cannington, the awards act as the perfect opportunity to "reflect on and recognise" the efforts of young people.

The educational facility's website explains further: "The Pride of Somerset Youth Awards (POSYA) honours remarkable achievements of young individuals throughout the county who have made their families, friends, or community proud over the last twelve months.

"Founded by the Rotary Club of Taunton, and now in their 17th year, the awards celebrate the often unsung heroes among our Somerset young people.

"They are dedicated to recognising inspirational efforts, accomplishments, unwavering determination and selfless actions.

"2024 looks to be the biggest year yet for the awards, with several fantastic sponsors from advocates of Somerset, including This is Gravity, Somerset County Gazette, and Bridgwater and Taunton College."

Andy Berry, Principal and CEO of Bridgwater and Taunton College, added: “We are delighted to sponsor these awards.

"Young people from across the county go above and beyond, often in the face of adversity, achieving amazing things.

"This is an opportunity to reflect on and recognise their achievements. I am looking forward to hearing their amazing stories and celebrating their accomplishments.”

The Rotary Club of Taunton is also eager to support young people and honour them when they excel. 

Speaking before the judging last year, Peter Renshaw, past president of the club, said: "The awards evening highlights what amazing things young people across Somerset have achieved, either volunteering, raising money for charity, excelling in the arts, sport or academically or overcoming adversity.

"Past winners range from excellence in sport to national level, helping the community when there were floods on the Somerset Levels, or excelling in music which also helped raise money for the Amber Trust."

Nominations for the awards have now closed.