A CALL has been made for youngsters who have gone the extra mile during the coronavirus pandemic to be recognised.

Community spirit throughout East Lothian has been praised by councillors and members of resilience groups over the last year.

Now, a Haddington and Lammermuir ward councillor is wanting to ensure youngsters who have done their bit are also recognised.

Councillor Shamin Akhtar, the local authority’s spokeswoman for education and children’s services, noted many young people had carried out acts of generosity during what had been a difficult time.

She highlighted letters of kindness had been sent to local care homes while Christmas bags had been collected for families in their local area through the schools.

Ms Akhtar highlighted the Young Scot Awards at Haddington’s community council meeting on Tuesday night.

Councillor Shamin Akhtar

Councillor Shamin Akhtar

The councillor said: “The past year has been a challenging time for young people.

“During this time, they have also shown resilience, care and compassion towards their local community.

“We have seen many acts of kindness shown by young people in the ward, and I would encourage everyone to make sure that this is recognised by nominating a young person for a Young Scot Award."

Nominations for this year’s Young Scot Awards are now open.

Individuals or a group of young people can be nominated to recognise a contribution or achievement.

Fourteen categories – ranging from community, volunteering, unsung hero and sport to health and wellbeing – are open to anyone from the age of 11 to 26.

The deadline for applications is Sunday and for more information, go to www.youngscotawards.com