YOUNG people from Forth Valley have been announced as finalists in this year's Sunday Mail Young Scot Awards in recognition of their incredible achievements.

Millie Boo Smith has been announced as a finalist in the Sports category.

The 15-year-old horse rider has shown outstanding commitment to the sport, having been awarded the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Participant of the Year in 2021.

Millie, who was born with cerebral palsy, has never allowed her disability to stand in her way, with her achievements including Grade 3 and 4 qualifications in RDA Horse Care, and Stage 1 and 2 in BHS Horse Care and Horse Health.

The talented youngster also qualified for the RDA National Championships in Dressage and came first in photography at the RDA arts and crafts event along with raising more than £20,000 for her RDA group.

Kirsten Urquhart, interim chief executive at Young Scot, said: "The inspiring work of all of Stirling's finalists is testament to what the Sunday Mail Young Scot Awards are all about – recognising, championing and celebrating the achievements of Scotland's young people.

"Congratulations to all of the 2022 finalists."

Aaron Smith, 25, is a finalist in the Entertainment category. The Forth Valley singer shot to fame after a video of him performing went viral on social media and has gone on to top global streaming charts with his debut single Unspoken.

Hoping to inspire other young people, the talented musician, who has previously struggled with depression, speaks openly about his battle with mental health and the challenges he has overcome so far.

The results will be announced on April 27 at an awards ceremony hosted at Edinburgh's International Conference Centre.