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Historic Scotland has launched a national drive to recognise and celebrate the young “Heritage Heroes” who give their time selflessly to protect, maintain and support the nation’s historic environment.

In conjunction with the Young Scot scheme, the agency is asking people to nominate deserving youngsters for this prestigious award, which joins 12 other categories in the annual contest that culminates in a lavish prize-giving ceremony in April.

Now in its seventh year, the Young Scot Awards celebrate the outstanding and unsung achievements of Scotland’s young people. The Awards aim to counter the often negative perception of today’s youth, and seek inspirational individuals aged eleven to 26 who have a positive difference by improving their community.

Last year’s “Heritage Hero” winner was Jamie O’Rourke, who developed, managed and conducted history tours in Falkirk town centre. Jamie worked with youngsters aged ten to 16 to increase awareness of the town’s heritage, and used his “Ghostly Guides” service to deliver ghost walks using drama and interactive techniques to local people and foreign visitors.

The categories which join the “Heritage Hero” award range through sport and arts to health and volunteering. Three finalists in each category will be selected, and invited to attend an awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow, on April 26th, when the winners will be revealed.

Those wishing to nominate their own “Heritage Hero” can find full details on the Young Scot web site, at www.youngscot.org. Nominations can be made until February 26th, 2012.