The Young Kennel Club (YKC) is welcoming nominations once again for the next Young Person of the Year award.
They are calling on the families of YKC members to put forward those that they believe are deserving in one of the five categories. 
With this year proving to be challenging and difficult for all its members, the YKC wants to honour the efforts, compassion and devotion to dogs that they have demonstrated throughout the lockdown period.
To acknowledge the abnormal circumstances of the previous six months, two new categories have been introduced, with all five highlighting the positive contribution that YKC members make the world of dogs.
The categories:
- Personal Achievement award – celebrating young people who have overcome personal challenges with their dog as well as the skills they have developed to achieve success in 2020
- Compassion award – celebrating young people who dedicate their time volunteering to help others or where their job is to put others before themselves
- Inspiring Others award – celebrating young people and their dogs who, through their positive attitude and inspirational approach, have proved to be a good role model in 2020
- Creative Talent award – celebrating young people who have managed to keep positive by being creative. This award is for those who have honed existing creative skills, or started a skill during lockdown that they will carry forward with them
- Community award – celebrating young people who show commitment and passion through social action – fundraising, campaigning, activities at school, college or community, for the welfare of dogs in 2020.
Last year’s overall winner, 24-year old Ryan Hennessy, set up the organisation Forever Agility in memory of his mum, Ann, who passed away from cancer in March 2019.
Ryan wanted to replicate the love and support shown by the agility community following Ann’s diagnosis, with the ain to be there for those who need help whilst facing life-limiting long-term illnesses.
Young Kennel Club Chairman, Ben Ashcroft said: “This year has been like no other and yet we have been astounded by how much our members have risen to the challenges that this year has thrown at them. Front entering the YKC online competitions in their hundreds and sharing stories of their personal achievements, they have really lifted our spirits and so we are looking forward to recognising and rewarding brave and inspiring young members with this year’s award.”
The closing date for nominations is December 18, and all shortlisted nominees from each category will be announced in January before being put forward for a public vote for the overall winner.
Anyone can nominate a YKC member in one of the Young Kennel Club Young Person of the Year award categories here.
