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Young Leader Press Release 13th October 2006

Northumberland’s children and young people have voted in their thousands by text and online and today Northumberland County Council is pleased to announce that David Yearnshire, 15, has been voted in as the county’s first ever Young Leader.

David, 15, who goes to Bedlingtonshire Community High School, said: “I’m so happy to have won the election to become Young Leader. As I said in my manifesto, I feel strongly about where I live and proud to be part of a close-knit community. I’m proud to be representing Northumberland, and will aim to make sure the voice of young people and children is heard by those who should be listening.”

The key principles of Yearnshire’s election campaign were education, employment, services, amenities and safety. School councillor Yearnshire wants to see more choice in the school curriculum, more job opportunities in Northumberland, and young people consulted about council services. Also high on the list are places for young people to go, and policing to support young people.

Yearnshire and the three other candidates attended the county council chambers today to read out their manifestos and receive the election results from the Leader of the County Council.

Coun Bill Brooks, Leader of the county council, said: “Well done to David and the other young people who ran in this election – David Crulley, Alexander Winter and Oliver Barnes. All four are great examples of the young people we have in the county – switched on, intelligent people who really care about their community, and have strong ideas on how to make a difference. I was very impressed by their commitment and manifestos. I’m sure they all have bright futures ahead – especially in politics if they choose that route!”

The Young Leader and the three runners up will take a special trip to Westminster to see politics in action. Yearnshire will also be spearheading a range of activities during Local Democracy Week.