TALENTED young people from all over Newport spent some well-deserved time in the spotlight at their own "Oscars" ceremony.

Now in its third year, the First Films event recognised the achievements of nine groups who produced a variety of short features including the thought-provoking and the entertaining as well as innovative work.

Underwood Youth Club received the judges' award with the animation Coming Alive.

A group from the Hope Centre in Somerton won double honours with Kill It Before It Kills U - a hard-hitting story aimed at reducing arson calls in their area and dedicated to the memory of former firefighter Ryan Buckley.

They won the award for the best community film and were also presented with the audience choice award by Newport's mayor Cllr Glyn Jarvis.

He said the standard of film-making had been superb and the decision was a difficult one for everyone.

A special award was given to 12-year-old Ben Somersall in recognition of his efforts even though his film was too long to be considered for the main ceremony.

As well as enjoying the films, the audience were also treated to excellent performances by local young artists and a special guest, Akil the MC accompanied by Newport DJ Jamie Winchester.

He praised the youngsters and said kids from his home in Los Angeles did not get the chance to do stuff like that.

The evening, which was organised by Arts Development, PiliPala Films and The Riverfront Education, was hosted by Ali Boksh Shai.

Other awards were also made for the following films.

* best use of sound - BBUC * best fictional film - Kill It Before It Kills U * best direction - Nicked * best acting - Colour of Friendship * best documentary - Helyg Medieval Garden Project * best camera work - Interpol - Hands Away * best use of music - DIY * best art direction - Splash Mural Video Project * most imaginative film - Coming Alive.