A competition to find the young TV presenter of the year was launched at a school in Didcot.

Konnie Huq with pupils Warren Byrne and Hugh Gledhill

Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq launched the competition during a visit to St Birinus Technology College in the town.

Miss Huq advised budding presenters: "Be genuine and not patronising to your audience."

The competition, sponsored by Hitachi Software, is open to all primary and secondary schools. Its aim is to encourage schoolchildren to start honing their presentation skills early.

Hitachi's marketing manager, Alex Goudge, said: "Presentation skills are essential for both school and work life. Good presenters are always in demand. With technology exceeding all expectations, it's essential we remember it's not just the equipment we use while presenting that's important, but the presenter's skills."

Entrants can choose a presentation topic from three categories -- the environment, nature and science -- and then submit a five-minute video presentation. The three top schools in each category will take part in the final next year.

Prizes will include a Hitachi interactive whiteboard, the Cambridge Board for schools and WH Smith vouchers for students.

For more details of the competition visit the website www.youngpresenter.co.uk or call 01908 340533.