An organisation renowned for recognising selfless efforts by mature women has opted for change and is seeking young female nominees for its annual award.

Soroptimist International of Yeovil annually gives the Woman in the Community Award. Recepients have all had one thing in common so far - maturity of years.

But the organisation's Great Britain chairman has asked branches to direct their respective awards towards the young this year.

A Yeovil spokesperson said: "The future lies in the hands of the young. The youth of today often receive bad press, which ignores the priceless contribution of so many to their local communities."

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This year's award has been earmarked for someone between the ages of 14 and 25, involved in volunteer activity and with the aim to make the world a better place.

Organisers have suggested that nominees can be involved with voluntary work on subjects such as drugs, AIDS, sex and STDs, homelessness, violence, discrimination, elderly people, youth work or mental and physical disabilities - but will be happy to consider other subjects as well.

The ideal candidate is described as "caring, compassionate, committed, creative - a young person who has demonstrated initiative and possibly overcome personal difficulties when making her contribution".

The winner will receive her award in September. Nomination forms are available from M Allen, 3 Green Quarry, Mudford Road, Yeovil, BA21 4AP. A form can also be obtained by calling 01935 477713 (evenings).