BRITAIN'S youngest councillor is celebrating his first year of committee meetings and council agendas.

At 22, Stephen Parry, Stockton Borough Council's member for Wolviston, says he has never been happier.

While many young men are more interested in beer, girls and football, Coun Parry said he was more concerned about helping solve the problems of his community.

Yet the youngest councillor in the country had no interest whatever in politics until three years ago.

It all began when he was studying physics at Newcastle University and a friend encouraged him to go along to a meeting. To his surprise, the then 19-year-old was instantly hooked.

After examining the policies and traditions of all three major parties he decided on the Conservatives.

He said: "I looked at all parties and the Liberals were just an instant no-no as they lacked direction and substance.

"I didn't like the over-management of Labour and did not believe new Labour would be that much different to before.

"However, I did like the ideas of Conservative principles."

After becoming involved in a number of local associations and taking an interest in local issues, aged 21, he decided to stand as a councillor.

After spending five months canvassing each household in the ward at least five times he was elected on May 1 last year, and since then has achieved everything he has said he would.

He said: "It was solid canvassing and long hours, but it was worth it. The Labour councillor had held the seat for four years and before her it was also Labour, so it was a good win.

"I hope I have bought a fresh approach to the patch."

As well as being on four council committees, Stephen also works as a sales rep and spends weekends with the TA, which leaves him little time to spend with his girlfriend.

He said: "My friends think it is quite a novelty but people now realise I am serious about it and the residents are fantastic. I

"It is a great experience and builds on a lot of skills. I am really enjoying it and I always try to be busy."

Stephen now hopes to gain further experience in the Conservative Party and take his political career further.