Young People of the Year

Young people don't always get a positive press, according to Tony Gearing, founder of Young People of the Year Ltd. Over seventy per cent - nearly three quarters - of stories about young people in the media are negative: ASBOs, hoodies, binge drinking.

The aim of Young People of the Year is to reveal, recognise and reward positive young role models. Tonight is the Essex awards in Chelmsford, and all the mayors and chairs of Essex councils have been invited, along with the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, nominators, families, friends and, most importantly, the Essex young finalists themselves.

There are fourteen finalists, of whom Harlow has provided two - not bad for one of the smallest districts in Essex. I'm delighted and privileged to speak with Neil Crouch, who runs Mike's Den, a club for disabled people in Partridge Road; and to have my photograph taken with Saskia Burnett, aged 11, who despite her own difficulties has spent endless time and energy raising money for St Clare's Hospice.

During the evening, we hear the stories of the fourteen finalists, who have all achieved amazing things, often in the face of incredible obstacles. They're all worthy winners, and a real inspiration to us all.