MORE than 150 of the borough's finest young achievers gather on Thursday at the Wigan Investment Centre for the annual youth awards.

They are in line for a range of awards at a glittering ceremony being attended by civic dignitaries and VIPs.

Master of Ceremonies 18 year-old Andrew Calland has a Duke of Edinburgh Gold gained through the Wigan Open Award Centre

Andrew was one of six young people to complete a four-day expedition in Snowdonia last year and undertook the Basic Expedition Leaders' Award this year as part of his 'service' section.

Sandra Baines, Award Officer, said: "The certificates being received by all the young people are a testimony to their own hard work, commitment and determination to succeed."

Another local group receiving awards are Lowton & Golborne Youth Council, whose members give local youth a voice in the community and are now trained to run the council themselves.

Leigh also offers an Open Award Centre at Kingsleigh Methodist, King Street on Wednesday evenings.