A Host of organisations supporting young people in the North-East shared £13,000 at a prestigious awards ceremony.

It was the biggest sum ever handed out in the history of the High Sheriff Youth Awards.

Awardswere handed out to 12 organisations by this year’s High Sheriff of Durham, Caroline Peacock, who described it as “a fabulous occasion”.

The ceremony took place in the magnificent setting of Wynyard Hall and was organised by County Durham Community Foundation (CDCF) , in partnership with Sir James Knott Trust, and with the support of Brewin Dolphin, Durham Constabulary and the Office of the Police, Crime and Victim’s Commissioner, Ron Hogg.

It was attended by a host of civic dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham, Sue Snowdon, president of CDCF, Sir Paul Nicholson, the High Sheriff for 2018-19 Dr Stephen Cronin and many local Mayors, and was hosted by journalist and broadcaster Peter Barron.

Members of the Mini Police, from Cockton Hill Junior School in Bishop Auckland, provided a guard of honour and took to the stage to explain how proud they are to be part of Durham Constabulary.

Michelle Cooper, Chief Executive of CDCF said “ We are lucky to have so many brilliant organisations supporting young people, helping to keep our communities safe and giving them an opportunity to demonstrate the confidence these awards give them has been fantastic”.