MUSICAL youngsters who grew up in care have bagged a prestigious award for their inspirational project.

Around 15 young people worked with Inspired Youth, a York-based group, to film and record a music video with city rapper Kritikal Powers.

The video by the Music4Care youngsters was awarded the Most Inspirational Campaign on Youth Issues at the Kids Count Inspiration Awards in the House of Commons.

Kevin Curran, a director of Inspired Youth, said the whole experience had boosted the children's confidence and made them eager to tackle bigger challenges.

He said: "It was the experience of a lifetime to set foot in the Houses of Parliament.

"They were in suits and received the award on behalf of the people who put their heart and soul into it.

"It was fantastic for them. It raises their aspirations and gives them an experience they wouldn't have had before."

Inspired Youth was commissioned by the Springboard charity and recorded and filmed the video at York St John University.

Kevin added: "They've definitely got a new sense of confidence and I feel like it's important for them that they've been listened to.

"It was one of the most competitive categories and we were delighted to win.

"It's great for the project and young people involved."

Their video has received thousands of hits on YouTube and has won the backing of homeless charities and organisations across the country.

The young people wrote the lyrics to their song How to Fly before shaping and performing in their own music video over 400 hours.

Presenting the award, Mike Penning MP said: "Their resilience and determination in life but also the fact they were motivated to reach out to other young people in the care system with a message of hope makes them very worthy winners."

Richard Stephenson, Kids Count chairman, said: "We’re delighted to recognise the significant achievements of the Music4Care project at the Kids Count Inspiration Awards and will be keen to learn about the future results of their continued dedication and efforts."