Young people will be given the chance to improve the lives of others, thanks to a memorial fund set up in the name of a murdered police officer.

Teenagers in Rutland are being invited to present ideas for a £100 prize which could be used for a community event or to buy equipment.

The Dragons Den-style competition has been organised with the help of family and friends of Mel Ward, a 28-year-old police officer stabbed to death in her Oakham home in January 2007 by her boyfriend, Benedict Marlow, who then took his own life.

Young people will have five minutes to pitch ideas for increasing the number of things to do or improving places to go for young people.

Mel's father, Derek, 64, of Exton, said: 'We have been working with Rutland Youth Service, as we really wanted to donate the money we have raised to a good cause – one which will help and be supported by young people."

Rutland County Council children and young people's services portfolio holder, Heather Wells, said: 'This is a great project to encourage young people to get involved in future plans for their age group in the area.

"I am looking forward to hearing their ideas and suggestions."

Young people can face the panel from 7pm next Wednesday, at Jules One Stop, in Oakham.

Further information is available by calling 01572 756655 or 07771 843718.

Alternatively, e-mail:

jdifolco@rutland.gov.uk