BOURNEMOUTH businesses have been urged to show their support for the town’s young people by throwing their weight behind this year’s Bourne Brilliant Awards.

The Daily Echo-backed awards are being supported by some of the biggest names in the town, including Abbey Life, JP Morgan, Yellow Buses, the Steve Bernard Foundation and the North Bournemouth Rotary Club.

But organisers still need more companies to come forward and agree to sponsor an award, which they will then present to short-listed nominees and an overall winner at a glittering award ceremony at the Royal Bath Hotel on Thursday, July 5.

Sponsoring an award costs just £400 and previous sponsors have said how impressed they were with the achievements of the young people and how challenging and inspirational they found the event.

The event aims to recognise not just high achievers but also those young people who work hard at improving the lives of others and those who have overcome hurdles to succeed.

Anyone interested in sponsoring an award should contact Claire Escott, events coordinator at Bournemouth Integrated Youth Service on 07920 756694.

Nominations are also currently being sought in the 10 categories. Download the entry form here

These are: the arts star award, sports star award, inspirational role model award, young local hero award, young star of the future award, triumph over adversity award, young carer award, outstanding contribution to the community award, young volunteer award and most successful young team. Forms and nomination details can be obtained by emailing bys@bournemouth. gov.uk or calling 01202 456205.

The closing date for nominations is Friday, May 25.