A GANG of kids who battled to outlaw troublemakers from their estate, a teenager who took on school bullies and a disabled boy who fought for better playground facilities were among youngsters who won Respect last year.

Now nominations are wanted for the Young People’s Respect Awards 2006. The event is organised by the Kent Messenger Group and Kent Police and puts the spotlight on youngsters who help crackdown on anti-social behaviour and other community problems.

When the Chief Constable of Kent, Mike Fuller, launched the 2006 scheme at the Kent Show he said he was confident he would once again be inspired, impressed and surprised by the imagination and dedication of "our public-spirited citizens of the future".

Mr Fuller 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 scheme is the first of its kind in the country and has won the backing of the Home Office and Charlton Athletic Football Club’s community scheme.

Louise Casey, the Government co-coordinator for Respect, praised the awards as a fantastic way of celebrating the achievements of "inspirational young people".

For more details click on to our special reports section.

Click here to download a nomination form.