INSPIRATIONAL young people in the Newquay community have been rewarded for their efforts on Thursday (April 4).

Newquay Lions Club staged its fifth Young Citizens Awards ceremony at the Kilbirnie Hotel where 30 young people aged five to 16 were presented with awards, which was attended by more than 100 parents, carers and friends.

Various schools, charities and organisations nominated the young people, which included Newquay DISC, Newquay Junior Academy, Newquay AFC Youth, Wave Slaves, Heron Tennis Centre, Chy Lowen Alpacas Tregaswith, Newquay Brownies and Guides as well as Lusty Glaze Surf Life Saving Club.

The award is to recognise and celebrate young people who exhibited characteristics that the community should nurture and encourage.   

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Drew Creek and Lion President David Everson made the presentations of certificates and medals, while friend of Newquay Lions, Maggie Biddle, read out the testimonials.

Jill Willmot, Newquay Lions youth officer and organiser said: “The young people were a credit to their families and as a town we are lucky to have such wonderful young citizens that will be members of our adult community in the future. 

“These young people, at this early stage in their life, are already exhibiting incredible caring, considerate, courageous and cooperative skills.  

“This was not a competition, it was to acknowledge, encourage and celebrate these young people’s contribution to our community.

“It was a great, uplifting, positive and inspirational occasion, reflecting the incredible quality of youngsters in our town.

“Newquay Lions would like to thank the Kilbirnie Hotel for their help in organising the event, County Councillor Kevin Towill for support from his Community Chest Fund and teachers and Youth Leaders for taking time in their busty schedules to nominate the young citizens.”

Cllr Creek added: “I’m always inspired by the youth of the town who go above and beyond expectations.”