Teenagers elected to represent county in parliament

Two young people from Northamptonshire have been elected Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) following a vote.

Chanel and Thomas will now represent the county at a national level, including participating in debates at the House of Commons and engaging with MPs on key issues affecting young people.

The pair were among 20 youngsters elected to West Northamptonshire Youth Council following an election held in partnership between West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Clubs for Young People Northamptonshire (CYPN).

The election took place in schools, youth clubs and sports clubs, and WNC said "thousands" of votes were cast.

Chanel, a student at Northampton School for Girls, will chair WNC's youth council, with Thomas - a pupil at Caroline Chisholm School - to serve as vice-chair.

Jane Carr, director of communities and opportunities at WNC, said: "This is an incredibly proud moment for our area.

"By giving young people the platform to speak out and get involved in the democratic process, we are helping to grow the leaders of tomorrow.

"The level of engagement in the elections was outstanding, and we're excited to support the Youth Council and MYPs as they bring forward fresh ideas, energy and perspectives to help shape our communities and beyond."

Morcea Walker MBE, who chairs West Northamptonshire's youth forum, said: "Our team of young people and staff are looking forward to raising the voices of the youth of West Northamptonshire locally, nationally and even internationally."

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