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Two inspirational Frome teenagers have been recognised at an emotional Pride of Somerset Youth Awards presentation ceremony.

The awards, presented by the BBC’s Clinton Rogers, highlighted the outstanding efforts of the county’s young people.

Ryan Seymour received a highly commended certificate for making excellent progress in his personal development.

The 14-year-old, who lives at the Mendip Children’s Centre in Frome, had set himself several personal challenges and has risen to meet them.

Many of his goals have centred on trying out new experiences to build his confidence and self esteem.

He recently put himself through gruelling challenges at Kilve Court, in West Somerset, but managed to keep smiling throughout when the adults trying to keep up were feeling the pressure.

Ryan succeeded with flying colours and earned a certificate of achievement that he proudly displays.

Lizi Priest, of Frome, was a winner for the way she looks after her mum.

Her mum Jude has been seriously ill for 30 years, and for 15 of Lizi’s 18 years she has cared for her without complaining, even coping with two serious scares when mum almost died due to her illness.

She has not let the demands of her home life get in the way of her school work and she now excels at college, gaining distinctions for her efforts.

Mrs Priest said: “I say thank you but it never seems enough to me. She has been my rock through some really horrible times but has always kept me smiling. Please, please recognise her hard work and unfailing love and care.”

More than 20 nominees were among the 100 guests who attended the event, held at Somerset College, Taunton.

The awards were run by Somerset’s County Gazette in partnership with the Rotary Club of Taunton and BBC Somerset.

The prize fund of more than £1,000 was sponsored by Avon and Somerset police, Rotary, Somerset County Council and the county’s Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.