The county’s budding politicians are being encouraged to begin their democratic journey as part of a new campaign.

The British Youth Council’s Make Your Mark scheme is an opportunity for people aged 11 to 18 to have their say and take their first steps into the democratic process by voting on policies they would like to see introduced.

Make Your Mark asks youngsters to vote on issues that matter to them most as a young person and those that matter to them locally.

The issues that are voted as the most important will be debated by Members of Youth Parliament.

They will campaign to influence UK Parliament and their local representatives, ensuring that the views of young people are listened to by decision makers.

Robbie Scott, Youth Cabinet and Youth Parliament member for Northumberland, said: “By getting involved in local democracy I have been given the opportunity to attend Youth Parliament’s national conference where we passed motions to tackle child poverty and to fight climate change and develop a curriculum that teaches us for life.

“Locally, I have sat on the Climate Change steering group, engaged with local councils and highlighted young people’s issues.

“I feel I have been able to stand up for young people and make real change in my community.”

Youngsters can cast their votes via the UK Parliament week website.

Coun. Guy Renner-Thompson, cabinet member with responsibility for children’s services said: “ I ran in my first election in Year 8 at Belford Middle School and I haven’t looked back.

“I would never have guessed 15 years later being on the cabinet of the county council.

“Being involved in politics allows me to have a say and speak up for others on subjects we are passionate about.”