ENGLAND football legend Jimmy Armfield wants to hear about young people who may be good enough to be crowned Lancashire's Young Citizen of the Year.

Mr Armfield, the High Sheriff of Lancashire, wants to hear about locals who have been brave, put others before themselves or become household names in their own communities - without looking for reward.

He says: "This scheme aims to recognise the county's unsung heroes who go beyond their potential to help others and make the streets and towns better places to live. They are the people who always have a smile on their face despite suffering pain, hardship, pain and adversity.

"I am positive there are many young people across the county who deserve recognition for the work they are doing."

Nominations are open for youngsters aged from 12 to 19 who have carried out caring work or been involved in helping their school, family or friends for at least six months.

The scheme - administered by the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime - is sponsored by Transco, the gas pipeline company and has a top prize of £250 and a donation to the winner's favourite charity.

More details and nomination forms are available from Ian Groundwater or Al Yusuf on 01772-412796.

Don't give your Christmas away

Christmas is fast approaching and so are opportunist burglars looking for that extra special festive gift'.

They know that houses are often left unoccupied despite the fact that the Christmas tree is surrounded by gifts waiting to go to Santa. And they are only too happy to take advantage.

That's why crime prevention officer PC Phil Corris is urging local people in true Christmas pantomime fashion to look behind you' at all times during the festive season.

"Sometimes it will feel like you need eyes in the back of your head to protect your property," he warns.

He has drawn up a list of 12 helpful hints one for each of the 12 days of Christmas to help people avoid becoming another number in the list of seasonal crime statistics this month.

Lock windows and doors when going out or retiring to bed.

Leave lights on and a radio playing when you go out Fit good quality locks to all windows and doors Keep the shed and garage locked at all times.

Do not leave tools insecure outside your home If an alarm is fitted, activate it whenever you leave the house, even just for a minute'.

Keep the garden gate locked to stop anyone getting to the back of your home.

Don't leave presents under the tree in view through a window or from the street.

Keep your car keys safe and well away from the front door.

Fit a door viewer and chain to the front door and use them for all callers.

If you see any suspicious activity, call the police immediately and do not become involved yourself.

Anyone who requires any help or advice is asked to call PC Corris or Mrs Jan Brown at the crime prevention office on 01524-596696.

Or if anyone has any information to combat any crime, anywhere, call the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.