LET'S hear something good about young people for a change!That was the message coming across loud and clear at the Youth Upfront event… and loud was the word, as the Vibe FM roadshow belted out music from the foyer of the UGC cinema in Ipswich.

LET'S hear something good about young people for a change!

That was the message coming across loud and clear at the Youth Upfront event… and loud was the word, as the Vibe FM roadshow belted out music from the foyer of the UGC cinema in Ipswich.

Circus skills displays, drama performances and a cyber café added to the fun atmosphere, but there was a serious purpose – to celebrate the talents and skills of young people around Suffolk, and show just how much they have to offer to the community.

Olympic swimmer Karen Pickering and 19-year-old racing driver Luke Stevens were among the celebrities joining in the event.

The showcase aimed to explain more about Suffolk Connexions, the new support and information service for 13 to 19-year-olds, and also to encourage youth groups to enter the Philip Lawrence awards.

Frances Lawrence, widow of murdered headteacher Philip Lawrence, went along to the event to talk about the awards scheme founded in memory of her husband.

"At the moment the world situation is very grim, but that makes it all the more important for us all to do things within our communities," said Mrs Lawrence.

"Through the awards, we want to reach out to all young people, including those who may be in the middle of a life of crimes and drugs."

Mrs Lawrence commented: "Many people say my husband was a hero, but he wasn't a saint, and the awards are not all about doing good works – it's about helping young people to get involved in living a full life."

Ivan Lewis, Minister for Young People and Learning, said: "I think this is a very positive event – it's a celebration of the achievements of young people."

The event ended with the cutting of a special Youth Upfront cake made by students from West Suffolk College, and the release of celebration balloons.