HALTON’S young people are going to the polls in their own election.

Jacob Lea Brown, the borough’s member of the  UK Youth Parliament is stepping down following his 19th birthday.

He said: “It has been a privilege to represent the young people of Halton at the UK Youth Parliament. Being able to attend the UKYP debate in the House of Commons is something I’all never forget.

"The UKYP does amazing work on behalf of the young people of Britain. I hope whoever takes on the role for Halton will make the very most of this awesome opportunity.”

The UK Youth Parliament represents young people across the UK and gives them direct access to decision makers at Westminster and locally here in Halton.

The seven candidates standing for election are Emily Hall, Jade Dabber, Jessica Marriott, and Matthew Walker from Runcorn and Amy Clarke, Deanna Johnson and Rhiannon Moss from Widnes.

Phil McClure, lead worker for participation and democracy, Halton Youth Provision, said: “The UK Youth Parliament is a brilliant way for young people to engage with decision makers at the very highest level.

"It’s a really strong line up of candidates here in Halton and I know that each and every one of them could do a brilliant job representing the young people of Halton. It going to be a tough choice for the young people of Halton.”

Voting is taking place at schools, colleges and youth clubs and is open to all young people aged 11 to 18 years old.

Ballots close on Thursday, June 12 and results will be announced the following day.

The winning candidate will represent Halton’s young people at the House of Commons in November when the UK Youth Parliament meets to debate, discuss and choose its annual campaign topics.