YOUNG people from Beaminster, Bridport and Lyme Regis are among those who have been celebrated as West Dorset Community Champions.

The group, along with their peers from Dorchester, are all members of the West Dorset Youth Bank and won the innovations section of the awards.

Among those to pick up the award from West Dorset MP Oliver Letwin were Lowell Fachau, representing Lyme Regis, Rob Satchwell, representing Beaminster, and Michael Ray, Claire West and Zoe Bevis from Bridport.

Arthur Woodgate, senior youth worker for West Dorset, said: "This project has been described as 'revolutionary' by a local councillor. It gives young people control of substantial funding which they can then use to support other young people who are doing something positive in their communities.

"It's great that their efforts as volunteers have been recognised in this way."

In its recent and first round of grant awards the Youth Bank supported a young woman from Dorchester who is striving to raise awareness about cancer in young people, a Community Arts Project in Lyme, and efforts to establish a Youth Café in Bridport.

The Youth Bank is funded by Youth Bank UK, Chalk and Cheese, and West Dorset District Council. A number of town councils are also contributing to Youth Bank funds.

Any young person or group of young people with a bright idea can apply for support by contacting Arthur Woodgate on 01308 422500 or Sue Bickle on 01305 252204.