AMATEUR animators will be in the spotlight tomorrow, when an oscar-style awards ceremony takes place at Banbury's Odeon Cinema.

The event will be hosted by Cherwell District Council's Animation Station and will recognise young people who have made cartoons and other animated movies that reflect Oxfordshire's heritage.

The county is celebrating its 1,000th anniversary this year, and in conjunction with Oxford Inspires, the Animation Station has co-ordinated '1,000 Frames For 1,000 Years' - an animation project to celebrate the birthday.

Six schools in and around Banbury, together with groups of young people working at the Animation Station during the summer holidays, have created short animation movies on Oxfordshire's cultural history and diversity.

Local primary schools include Bloxham, Bishop Loveday, Hillview, Grange, St Leonard's, and Queensway. The movie themes range from highwaymen to mythical Banbury beasts, and from a Bodicote Second World War evacuation story to the life and times of artist William Morris.

To reward the children for their work, the films are being shown on the big screen at the Banbury Odeon on Saturday between 10am and midday at a special red carpet awards ceremony.

'Oscars' will include a special achievement award sponsored by CBBC's Summerton Mill creators.

The Odeon and local media company Avalon Studios are also sponsoring the event.

George Reynolds, CDC's executive member for community, recreation, and health, said: "Over 300 children have been involved on the 1000 Frames 1000 Years project.

"It has been a phenomenal success with the Animation Station playing an important role in introducing new and exciting creative experiences to schools."

Anyone interested in attending the event should call 01295 221730 to reserve tickets (limited availability will mean first come first served).