YOUNGSTERS who starred in their own film to try to raise Government money for their local neighbourhoods have earned a video company two prestigious prizes.

As reported in the BEN, youngsters of all ages stepped in front of the camera to ask the Government for cash aid to revitalise various parts of Bolton and improve facilities for children and teenagers.

Government officials were taken on a video tour of local grot spots as youngsters gave a running commentary on how they would like to see things change if Bolton received cash from the Single Regeneration Budget.

Judges at the prestigious Institute of Videography awards in Coventry were so impressed with the final film they awarded it third prize in the best video production and general release made last year.

They were impressed at the way the children spoke in their own words about their vision of the future and how they wanted to be proud of their localities.

The prizes are a coup for local company Apple Video, which was called in to create the film to support Bolton's bid for SRB money in the Breightmet, Darcy Lever, Burnden, Hall i'th'Wood and Haulgh wards.

Film makers focused on a lack of amenities and how younger children want safer places to play and older ones a youth club and floodlit, well-maintained sports facilities.

A council spokesman said: "The success of the video was due to the fact that the children and young people expressed their views in their own words and a strong message came across that they really wanted to be proud of their local area."

Bolton Council will learn in July if the bid is successful.