The search is once again on to find and reward young people across Norfolk and Suffolk who are a real inspiration to us all.

Whether you know of a brilliant rising sports star, or a young person who has show great courage, or someone who is dedicated to helping their community, the Bernard Matthews Youth Awards, in association with the Eastern Daily Press, would like to hear from you.

Now in their fifth year, the awards look to highlight amazing groups and individuals aged 11 to 18 in the two counties.

This year the award categories include food, farming, sport, community, charity, arts, bravery and education, with each offering a £1,000 prize to help the winners further their dreams.

There will also be an overall Bernard Matthews Young Person of the Year Award which was last year won by Alfie Hewett, now 15, from Cantley, who impressed judges with his huge achievements in wheelchair tennis and whose sporting success is a great testament to his determination to not let health issues stop him achieving his dreams.

New for 2013 there is also a 'hero' award to give young people a chance to recognise an adult who has done a great deal to help, support and inspire them.

Andrew Sherwood, HR director at Bernard Matthews, said: 'We are thrilled to be launching the fifth Bernard Matthews Youth Awards with the EDP. Each year we are humbled by the bravery, strength of character and extraordinary successes of young people throughout Norfolk and Suffolk.

'Our young people are the Norfolk and Suffolk of the future, and as this next generation flourishes, we want them to do so knowing they have our backing and support.

'To celebrate our fifth year of running the Awards we have a new category in which we are inviting young people to nominate their hero.

'This could be an adult who has made a substantial impact on their lives for example a teacher, coach, parent, club leader because we are aware that for many young people their own achievements would not be possible without the support of some very special adults.

'There is no prize money for this category, purely recognition and genuine thanks.

'We will celebrate all the winners and finalists at our stunning awards evening held in October half term.'

EDP editor Nigel Pickover said: 'Through our own Stars of Norfolk Awards we know full well the value of celebrating great people in our community. We are delighted we are yet again part of the Bernard Matthews Youth Awards which are fantastic and inspiring for young people.'

Young people aged 11-18 from Norfolk or Suffolk can enter or be nominated.

The closing date is Friday, August 16. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to an awards evening at Open in Norwich on October 29. Young people from The Garage will also be performing at the awards.

For more information on how to enter the awards, or to nominate someone, visit www.bmyouthawards.com or call 01603 706566

People can also find out about entering the awards at the Bernard Matthews stand at the Royal Norfolk Show (stand 304) on June 26 and 27.

Follow @BMYouthAwards on Twitter