Three young people from Ceredigion have been awarded financial support to pursue their ambitions in sport, business and skilled trades.

Martha Silvestri-Jones, 13, Chloe Jones, 23, and Ollie Reilly, 15, were announced as the successful recipients of this year's Ceredigion Youth Bursary.

Now in its ninth year, the scheme provides £1,500 in financial support through sponsorship from local business West Wales Holiday Cottages.

It aims to help young people aged between 11 and 25 overcome financial barriers to developing their skills, gaining qualifications or pursuing personal ambitions.

The three successful applicants were selected by members of Ceredigion Youth Forum, known as Panel Dewis, following an assessment of applications received over the summer. The forum used a scoring system to assess proposals and consider the potential impact on applicants and their communities.

This year's entries covered a wide range of ambitions, including social enterprises, community events, training opportunities and business ideas.

The successful recipients were invited to a presentation at Theatre Felinfach on 30 September, where their achievements were celebrated alongside those of other young people making a difference across Ceredigion.

Since the bursary was established, 22 young people across Ceredigion have received support.

Gwion Bowen, the council's Senior Children and Young People's Participation Officer, praised both the standard of applications and the contribution of the youth forum members involved in selecting winners.

Lisa Stopher, Managing Director of West Wales Holiday Cottages, said the company was pleased to continue supporting young people in the county. She praised the recipients' achievements and said the business wanted to help them realise their ambitions.

Councillor Wyn Thomas, Cabinet Member for Schools, Lifelong Learning and Skills, also congratulated the successful applicants and highlighted the value of recognising young people's aspirations.

The council said further information about next year's bursary will be made available in 2027.