On the 27th January 2012, 128 young people packed the Civic Centre in Poole to get their voice heard and elect their next Member of Youth Parliament and Deputy.

Also in attendance were the local MP Annette Brooke, the Mayor of Poole and a number of other Councillors.

The audience was treated to a fantastic display of enthusiasm and passion from the 12 brave candidates standing for election. The manifestos covered topics including anti-bullying and cheaper public transport, and all the speeches were well received. At the end of a brilliant evening, Jack Matthews and Ben Howard were elected as MYP and Deputy respectively.

Hi, I’m Jack and I’m thrilled and privileged to be Poole’s MYP. I’m in Year 10 at Poole Grammar School. I am interested in young people’s issues, sport and playing the drums! Hopefully, Ben and I can achieve as many positive things as Nathan and Vicky did last year. I’m really looking forward to the exciting challenge and opportunity that this year brings.

Hello, my name is Ben and I am extremely excited about taking on the role of Deputy MYP. I also attend Poole Grammar school and I am currently in my first year of sixth form. My hobbies include drama, playing guitar and piano. I hope to do my best to represent the youth in Poole and I am really looking forward to the year ahead.

Our three priorities for 2012 will be about achieving a real positive difference with anti-bullying in schools, developing more youth employment and volunteering opportunities, and having more affordable leisure activities for young people.

We hope to communicate our progress in these areas via a regular blog here and the Poole UKYP Facebook page. Please contact us if you have any ideas or comments regarding youth issues in Poole, as we are always happy to listen to what you have to say.