It's a wrap for the LSC oscars launch

L-R: The LSC's Margaret Coleman, Mike
Lowe, and Gary Rae, with actress
Hayley Tamaddon (front).

The red carpet has been rolled out and a hint of oscar style celebrations have taken place across Yorkshire and the Humber as Emmerdale's Delilah Dingle, actress Hayley Tamaddon, launched the Celebration of Learning and Skills (CoLaS) Awards 2008.

The 2008 Ceremony will attract over 1,000 guests to the spectacular event at the Harrogate International Centre on 16 April 2008. The region's business leaders will join key employers, politicians, journalists, education representatives and the families and friends of the nominees for an evening of entertainment and recognition of achievement.

Margaret Coleman, regional director for the LSC in Yorkshire and the Humber said: "So much of the LSC's work in learning and skills is deserving of recognition. CoLaS 2008 is a fantastic opportunity to showcase and celebrate the achievements that we have been involved in. In addition, the scale and size of CoLaS 2008 aims to truly reflect the whole region, which is rich in opportunities and talents."

Nominations are now open to employers, organisations and individuals over the age of 14 who have achieved learning excellence or success in skills development. CoLaS 2008 isn't just about academic or professional achievements, it's about recognising improvements in learning and skills, many against the odds, and award winners are expected to span all sectors.

Hayley Tamaddon got the awards off to a show stopping start by launching the event to LSC staff with a tour of the Yorkshire and the Humber region. She said: "CoLaS 2008 is really exciting news and something that everyone, from any part of Yorkshire and the Humber can get involved in and enjoy. It's a great way to celebrate your achievements as an organisation or individual and take pride in what you've done."

The LSC also called all red carpet fans for the regional talent contest The Audition which will be held in February. It will identify the best entertainers in the region to perform at the CoLaS 2008. So whatever the talent, whether spinning plates, juggling, singing, dancing, performing magic tricks, making people laugh or anything in the name of family friendly entertainment, people should be sure to get practising and try out at The Audition.

A few talented individuals could win the brilliant opportunity to perform on the night and gain experience of a professional event on a massive scale in front of a 1000 strong crowd, complete with their name in lights, professional sound, stage and lighting and a live band.

The LSC is also looking for the support of local employers and organisations as sponsors of the 11 awards categories. Organisations can expect a brilliant awareness boost, a chance to take a real pride in the region's talent and the opportunity for a highly enjoyable evening.

So if you can handle the thought of a high glamour evening, spectacular entertainment, brilliant achievers and VIP celebrities then make a note of CoLaS 2008 Yorkshire and the Humber.

Visit www.lsc.gov.uk/colasyh08 for further details and nomination forms.

Click the link above to watch a podcast from the event.