The High Sheriff of Durham, James Fenwick, is working in partnership with the Sir James Knott Trust and County Durham Community Foundation to spearhead the High Sheriff’s awards. He is calling for community groups to submit their entries for these leading community awards that reward young people for doing ground-breaking and life-changing work across the community.

The awards are funded by the Sir James Knott Trust who supports community projects in Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and County Durham including Hartlepool. Additional money will be provided through the High Sheriff’s Fund managed by County Durham Community Foundation.

James Fenwick said: “During 2015 I have travelled throughout the County and have come across many extraordinary individuals and groups of all ages who voluntarily give their time to improve the communities in which they live and work, and make County Durham a better and safer place to live. 

“The awards, run by County Durham Community Foundation, are a great opportunity to recognise local groups and volunteers and celebrate their magnificent work”.
Vivien Stapley from the Sir James Knott Trust added: “We are delighted to support the Durham High Sheriff Awards which recognise the achievements of young people and would encourage community groups who are helping children and young people to be inspirational to enter the awards”.

Barbara Gubbins, Chief Executive of County Durham Community Foundation said: “Many young people learn about good citizenship by engaging in community projects. This could be a youth club teaching young people about respect and equality or intervention services tackling harder issues in the community. 

“We are keen to hear from voluntary groups who are doing great things and whose efforts make such a difference to the local community. They deserve our recognition, as much of their work goes unnoticed. What’s more, voluntary groups can win up to £3,000 which could have a significant impact on their work.”

The awards will be presented at a ceremony at Durham Castle on 30th March 2016.