A project by a regional daily newspaper to show young people in a positive way has won a top award.

The Exeter-based Express and Echo has been recognised in the 2010 Positive Images Awards, run by Children and Young People Now magazine, for the best local press coverage of young people.

It scooped the prize for its ‘Teen team’ initiative, run with Devon Youth Service, which allows a group of young people to produce a weekly page for the newspaper about issues which matter to them.

Laura Popazzi, one of the judges, said: “I absolutely loved Teen team. It was so very well integrated with the rest of the newspaper and was very engaging.”

The project was started in September last year when the newspaper approached Devon Youth Service wanting to do something to combat the negative image of young people in the press.

Once the idea had been developed, young people came up with the name Teen team, which stands for ‘together everyone’s equally noticed’.

Devon County Councillor Andrea Davis, cabinet member for young people’s health and wellbeing, said: “The Express and Echo has been focused on young people during this project, handing over editorial control to them.

“The page really is a place where young people can get an opportunity to combat negative press and also give their opinions on issues that directly affect their lives.

“Congratulations to the young people involved in this highly successful venture, and to the Express and Echo.”

The awards have been run by Children and Young People Now magazine since 2005 to recognise and reward those who portray youngsters in a positive light.