A YOUTH worker from Burnley and budding politician from Pendle were among those honoured at a prestigious awards ceremony.

James Hardy, 18, who has volunteered at Burnley Boys and Girls Club for four years, was commended at the High Sheriff of Lancashire’s Young Citizen of the Year Awards.

And 15-year-old Laurence Ingram, a Member of Youth Parliament from Colne, received the same honour.

James was a member of the Barden Lane youth club for seven years before becoming a leader, while Laurence has travelled to Westminster representing the county’s young people.

The awards, sponsored by BAE Systems, recognise young people who have helped either neighbourhood, an individual, family member or organisation.

High Sheriff Peter Mileham said: “I am delighted to be able to reverse the trend and celebrate and promote the young people’s achievements, and highlight the valuable contribution they make to the communities in which they live.”

Another pair of East Lancashire youngsters, Lauren Hall and Hannah Whittaker, both 16, from Chatburn, were highly commended at the awards this week.

The girls were instrumental in setting up Chatburn Youth Forum after growing tired of anti-social behaviour in the village.

The forum now meets every fortnight in the village hall and arranges events for youngsters.

Ashley Thompson, 15, from Blackpool, won the High Sheriff’s Young Citizen of the Year Award at Lancashire Police’s Hutton HQ.