Rotary Clubs in the West Midlands have instituted an annual Young Innovator Award for young people aged 14 to 18 with first, second and third prizes of pound;2,000, pound;1,000 and pound;500. Entrants develop a project using technology (ideas this year included a device to feed young animals over weekends when schools are closed). All of the finalists - there were 30 this year - receive a one-week course at Pershore Business College whee they will learn how to develop and market their ideas. The finals of the next competition will be held in July. Details: Sylvia Morgan, vocational committee chair, tel: 01902 342195.

Sixth formers aged 16 to 18 are challenged to make a container, pack and counter pack of sale for “In Ya Face”, a unisex fragrance for teenagers, for the Student Starpack Design Awards. Run by The Institute of Packaging, the competition also invites students aged 11 to 15 to design and make a container for “Jungle Juice”, a new soft drink. The closing date is : January 21. The awards, together with cash prizes, will be presented on March 30. Details: Lynda Travis, IOP, Sysonby Lodge, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 ONU. Tel: 01664 500055.E-mail: lynda_travis@iop.co.uk