They are both down to the final four in the Best Contribution to a Heritage Project by Young People category in Historic England’s Heritage Angel awards.

Founded by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the awards celebrate the efforts of people who go to extraordinary lengths to protect, save and share their heritage. Six other HLF supported projects have also been shortlisted.

William Fakes

Thirteen-year-old William developed a passion for archaeology when he became involved in uncovering the past of Middleton Park, which was being restored thanks to National Lottery players.

Following that he became one of the first to sign up to the Leeds Young Archaeologists’ Club (YAC). The group’s leader was so impressed with his skill and passion that she nominated William for the prestigious 2015 Marsh Award for Young Archaeologist of the Year, presented by the Council for British Archaeology and supported by the Marsh Christian Award.

William plans to study archaeology and become a leader and volunteer at YAC… and never have a job behind a desk.

Heritage Hunters

Young people in Bishop Auckland took their local castle by storm and made an incredible lasting impression.

Aged 9 to 25, the Heritage Hunters explored the history of Auckland Castle, learnt to become tour guides and opened up the historic building’s heritage for families for the first time. Youngest member Billy-Joe even recorded a soundtrack for the castle’s story.

They were so successful that Auckland Castle decided to continue the initiative – meaning the hard work of BillyJoe and the others will have a lasting legacy for young people in Bishop Auckland.

Six others shortlisted

The other categories are: Best Community Action Project, Best Research Project and Best Rescue of a Heritage Site. The six other HLF supported people and groups up for an award are:

• West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust for work at Lye and Wollescote Cemetery Chapel
• Tameside Borough Council for the rescue of Ashton Old Baths
• The Arkwright Society for the rescue of The Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Gateway and Cromford Creative
• Fylde Decorative and Fine Arts Society for the Tagging the Treasures project
• Carlo Diponio who played a vital role in restoring the Tecton Buildings at Dudley Zoo.

Let the voting begin!

You now have until 12 October to vote for your favourite Heritage Angel on the Historic England website.

The winners of the Heritage Angel Awards will be announced on Monday 31 October 2016.

Find out more about William, the Heritage Hunters and other heritage stars on our Changing Lives Tumblr page.