The talent and dedication of North Ayrshire's young people will be officially recognised this summer.

Nominations are open for the six awards that make up the Rising Stars Awards. The 2013 event will build on the success of last year and recognise the young people who help to enrich the lives of others and create a strong sense of community.

The six categories open for nominations are: Creative Achievement, Sports Achievement, Outstanding Contribution to the Community, Personal Achievement, Outstanding Academic Achievement, and Group/Club Award So, if you know a youth group that has helped to improve their local area, a young person who has inspired others or a classmate who has overcome adversity to achieve great things, we'd like to hear from you. Nominations close on Tuesday 30 April and the winners will be announced at a ceremony in June 2013. Individuals nominated must be of secondary school age up to the age of 18.

Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Education Attainment and Achievement. said: "Key to the Rising Stars Awards is the equal footing given to a range of categories from academic achievement to community work, sports to personal success.

"As well as highlighting our most talented and dedicated young people, Rising Stars recognises that all of these subjects have real value and make a positive impact on their future.

"I hope these awards continue to inspire all of our young people, not to mention the wider community, to make that extra effort.

Nominations forms are available from Community and Culture and should be completed and returned to Carol Kirk, Corporate Director, Education and Skills, Cunninghame House, Irvine, KA12 8EE by 4.45pm on Tuesday 30 April.

If you are under 18, your nomination must be supported by an adult (e.g. a teacher, social worker, youth worker or play worker) who knows the individual or group you are nominating and can sign the form on your behalf.

Although you can't nominate yourself, you can nominate one of your classmates, someone from your local youth group or a neighbour who you feel has made a difference to those around them.