Monmouthshire Youth Service's roving reporters were rewarded for their hard work when they attended the Youth Work in Wales Excellence Awards in Cardiff on Thursday 23rd February.

The awards were held at the SWALEC Stadium in Cardiff and presented by Welsh Radio One DJ Huw Stephens.

Out of an original 170 applicants for the 'Outstanding contribution to developing new skills for young people' award, the roving reporters made it to the final three and came out as winners on the night.

Representing the team were Lucy Flack and Sarah Fox, joined by youth service colleagues Georgina Jones, Tracey Thomas, Dan Davies and Catherine Weaver.

The award was presented to Lucy and Sarah by Jeff Cuthbert, Deputy Minister for Skills, in recognition of the project helping young people develop talents such as writing, communications, interpersonal and research skills.

Youth and community officer Tracey Thomas said: "It was an amazing night and I feel very proud of our unique roving reporters project.

"To win this award is a credit to staff who truly deserve this acknowledgement for the fantastic work they do within Monmouthshire."

The roving reporters are a team of young reporters who produce articles and photographs reflecting communities in Monmouthshire, many of which have been featured in the

Monmouthshire Beacon.

Particular emphasis lies with the young people's perspective, allowing them to have a voice.

Sarah Fox, Roving Reporter for Monmouthshire Youth Service, said: "I had such a lovely evening and am overwhelmed by achieving such a great award.

"It is an absolute privilege to work for Monmouthshire Youth Service and to support our young people."

Deputy Minister for Skills, Jeff Cuthbert, said: "These awards celebrate the contribution youth workers make to their communities and the positive impact they have on the lives of the next generation.

"Youth programmes across Wales allow young people to fulfil a range of interests and provide an outlet for their positive development and creativity.

"These programmes would not be possible without the support and dedication of youth workers."