Role model: Police Director of Operations Peter Yam poses with Hong Kong Award for Young People bronze awardees.

A total of 452 young people have been commended at Hong Kong Award for Young People Bronze Award Presentation Ceremony for their enthusiasm and outstanding performance.

The awardees, comprising 110 Police officers and 342 Junior Police Call members, received their bronze awards from Police Director of Operations Peter Yam and the award's Council Chairman Ho Che-leung.

Mr Yam said the award emphasises the importance of voluntary participation with no competition involved. Participants must overcome every challenge brought about by the activities with self-discipline and perseverance to achieve their goals.

"In fact, the trainees have achieved personal development in the process.They have become more enthusiastic and responsible citizens.

"The Hong Kong Award for Young People activities organised by Police are in line with the Force's strategic direction, 'Engaging the Community'. Young people can learn more about Police officers during the activities. Communications and cooperation between the two parties are thus enhanced," he added.

The scheme aims to build up young people's confidence and develop their potential. Participants aged 14 to 25 will be awarded gold, silver and bronze medals at different levels after completing specified training in skills, service, expedition, physical recreation and a residential project.

Police first ran the award scheme - formerly called the Duke of Edinburgh's Award - activities at the Police Cadet School in 1973 and established the Hong Kong Police Operating Authority in 1979. It is one of the 17 operating authorities of the scheme to co-ordinate relevant activities.