FOUR young people from Herefordshire were celebrated for their contribution to an award-winning podcast series in a presentation ceremony at the Herefordshire Council offices at Plough Lane.

Phoebe Nairn, Karey Price, Jordan Simpkins and James Hibberd were presented with a framed certificate by Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, cabinet member for children and families, for their part in the ‘Health Uncovered’ podcast series.

The podcasts, hosted by BBC TV and radio personality Cel Spellman, covered a range of different topics that affect young people, from sexual health, bullying and grooming to substance misuse, mental health and the pressure of social media.

The county quartet took part in recording the fifth podcast in the series ‘Mental health: Are you okay?’ which provided them with the opportunity to talk openly and honestly about their personal experiences with their own mental health.

The series proved to be a huge hit, resulting in it being a finalist in the ’Best Podcast’ category at the national Arias awards for the UK's audio and radio industry held in October in Leeds.

The nomination saw the podcast series compete with the likes of radio presenter, Fearne Cotton and four other well-known broadcasters from across the UK.

The team walked away with silver as runners up, narrowly being pipped to the post by ‘Griefcast’ hosted by Cariad Lloyd.

Cllr Swinglehurst said: “I was delighted to invite James, Karey, Jordan and Phoebe to Plough Lane and present them with a certificate in recognition of their contribution towards this important podcast series.

“James, Karey, Jordan and Phoebe were able to use their own personal experiences to hopefully provide other young people who are experiencing similar issues with a valuable source of advice and reassurance.”

To download any of the ten free podcasts, visit the Apple iTunes or Stitcher Android app stores and search ‘Health Uncovered’.

The series is also available on Twitter @HealthUncovNHS and Instagram @healthuncovered.