KENT'S young people can change people's attitudes and perceptions by their actions, said Chief Constable Mike Fuller.

He told the winners of the 2007 Kent Young People's Respect Awards that they had won the respect they deserved by encouraging others to respect everyone and everything around them.

"Young people play an important part in our communities," he said. "And young people are our future. Each and every one of you will in time take on more responsibilities in shaping our society in years to come.

"The reason you are all here tonight is because you have each demonstrated how you wish to live - in an environment that allows everyone to flourish and enjoy the future - together - as a community.

"So, I will say to you one thing. Continue to build on your achievements and aspire for a better life for yourself, your friends and families, for your communities - and for what is right.

"Your work influences people's perceptions and changes attitudes. It makes friends and it wins hearts. It acts as a deterrent to wrongdoers.

"The more you spread your message of community spirit and friendship through your actions, the more that is heard and acted upon by others.

"I am delighted to support the Kent Messenger Group's Young People's Respect Awards, to highlight the contribution you all, as young people, are making to life in our county.

"When I helped to launch these awards in the summer, I wrote in the Kent Messenger newspapers how there is a common misconception that young people are the cause of many of the problems communities in our county face.

"Yet as I travel around the county talking to residents, I never fail to be impressed by the sense of responsibility and commitment shown by you all.

"You have shown me how you actively make your communities better places.

"I've seen how you tackle problems caused by anti-social behaviour and how you help others in so many different ways to improve the local environment.

"We celebrate and salute your achievements."