Lancashire's young people now have the chance to mark their crosses next to their preferred candidates and elect their representatives to the Youth Parliament.

Any young person aged 11–19 and who lives in Lancashire is eligible to vote. Voting is now open online until Thursday 15 March.

Five Members of the Youth Parliament (MYP) will be elected covering the following areas:
• Preston
• Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire
• Lancaster, Fylde and Wyre
• Burnley and Pendle
• Hyndburn, Ribble Valley and Rossendale

One more MYP will be chosen by the Children in Care Council and the SEND forum.

County Councillor Susie Charles, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, said: "This is a great opportunity for you to get involved by voting for your MYP. I'd urge young people to support the democratic process and their local communities.

"This is another demonstration of the positive contribution that young people can make."

Young people who are elected organise events and projects, run campaigns and influence decision makers on the issues which matter most to young people. Runners-up will be offered the opportunity to become a Deputy MYP to support the MYPs in these activities.

In the past two years, one million young people have voted in UK Youth Parliament elections.

Young people can find out who is standing for election in their local area and vote at http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/youthzo...arliament.aspx

More information is also available by calling Brian Wood on 07795 222745 or emailing brian.wood@lancashire.gov.uk