The accolades, now in their 16th year, recognise outstanding under-35-year-olds from across the region who have made an impact nationally or locally.

Their success could involve a triumph over adversity or accomplishing great things in business, sport, education or the arts.

Harry Potter star Matthew Lewis and artist Darren Baker, both former winners, were joined by 2007 Youngster of the Year Jack Marshall to launch this year's search at ITV Yorkshire in Leeds.

Matthew, 19, whose big-screen performances as Harry's faithful pal Neville Longbottom landed him last year's Achievement in the Arts Award sponsored by the Yorkshire Evening Post, said: "It was incredible – it meant a lot to me. And being asked to do this, to be asked to come along and open it up is fantastic."

Matthew, who grew up in Horsforth but now lives in Burley, has recently finished filming Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince – out in November. In February he starts work on Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows, the seventh and final film which is being split into two parts.

Huddersfield artist Darren, Management and Enterprise Achievement Award winner in 2005, set up his own business five years ago with a grant from The Prince's Trust and has now been commissioned to paint the Queen's portrait later this year.

Other past winners include Leeds chart-toppers Kaiser Chiefs, Spice Girl Mel B, cricketer Michael Vaughan and singer Gareth Gates.

The awards, set up and sponsored by McCormicks Solicitors of Harrogate, have raised more than £500,000 for leading children's charity NCH.

Nomination forms are available from www.yorkshireyoung-achievers.co.uk or from Zoe Ward on 01423 530630. The closing date is Friday September 12 and the winners will be revealed at a dinner on November 6.

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