OUTSTANDING young crime fighters in Suffolk are set to be recognised with a major award.The county's High Sheriff Clare Euston will next week honour the work of children who have been key to schemes aimed at protecting young people and improving the lives of Suffolk's residents.

OUTSTANDING young crime fighters in Suffolk are set to be recognised with a major award.

The county's High Sheriff Clare Euston will next week honour the work of children who have been key to schemes aimed at protecting young people and improving the lives of Suffolk's residents.

The High Sheriff's community Safety Award is presented annually to a group of young people judged to have made a significant impact on awareness of community safety, crime reduction and citizenship.

The awards are to be presented on Monday at the Suffolk Constabulary assembly hall in Martlesham Heath.

High Sheriff Clare Euston said: "The aim of the award is to encourage and recognise the key role young people can play in the fight against crime.

"It also seeks to build on work within the existing schools curriculum in delivering and understanding citizenship.

"The efforts of all the schools and youth action groups, together with their leaders, are to be commended.

"Young people have been encouraged to play an active part in local crime reduction, community relations and community safety initiatives."

This year prizes will be offered in an under 12s category for the youngest entrants as well as an over 12 years category in a move by the judges to recognise the diversity of the projects entered and the age groups of the entrants.

First prize winners in both categories will win £375 each.

The major winner on the night will be entered into the National Crimebeat awards.

Weblink: www.suffolk.police.uk

N Do you know a young person who has helped reduce crime? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.