Kent Chief Constable Mike Fuller, who launched the Respect Awards last year, said: "Our first winners really impressed me with their commitment to making where they live a better place. Their awards reflected not only our respect for them, but also the enormous respect they show for their community.

"The winners inspired us with their determination to stop or prevent anti-social behaviour through projects including campaigns to create local facilities for young people, environmental activities such as litter clearing and action to provide support for young people with particular needs, such as those leaving care.

"There were also some incredible individual examples of courage by young people who, despite enormous problems, got involved in community life to help make it better for others. As I said last year, I never fail to be impressed by the sense of responsibility and commitment shown by the young people I meet.

"There is often a perception that this group is to blame for many of society’s problems. Many people are surprised to know that in fact young people are more likely than older people to be, or to worry about becoming, victims of crime.

"I am confident that once again we will be inspired, impressed and even sometimes surprised by the imagination and dedication of our public-spirited citizens of the future. I am keen for people to recognise their contribution by nominating deserving individuals and groups for a 2006 Respect award."

Chief Inspector Mark Harrison, who leads the partnership and crime reduction department of Kent police, said: "Our Respect awards provide an opportunity to showcase the fantastic things that so very many of our young people get up to."

Mark, who has been appointed to a Home Office Respect Squad which can be called in to help tackle anti-social behaviour anywhere in the country, said the awards were the first of their kind in the country. "The Home Office is supporting the Respect Awards because the scheme is recognised as an excellent opportunity to redress the balance and allows the county to show respect for young people," he said.

Ron Green, managing editor of the Kent Messenger Group, said: "People are quick to complain about young people. But the vast majority of youngsters are decent, hard working and caring and they get sick and tired of unfair and unnecessary criticism.

"Our editors are always delighted to recognise the achievements of our young people and the Respect Awards provide an opportunity to show how much we value their achievements. So if you know a young person to be proud of please nominate them."