TEENAGERS are to be given a greater say in the decision making-process in North Yorkshire.

A new youth council aimed at allowing teenagers to get their voices heard in the corridors of power has been launched.

Established with the support of the county council, members of the North Yorkshire Youth Council are being drawn from the local youth councils already in operation across the county.

The county’s executive member for youth services, Heather Garnett, said: "There are currently 20 local youth councils operating across North Yorkshire.

"Each takes an increasing role in distributing funding to young people’s organisations, liaising with district and borough councils and organising events and activities for young people.

"The county wide youth council will provide the opportunity for the area youth councils to work together, share ideas and campaign on issues of common concern."

She added: "Representatives from the youth council will also eventually take up seats on the UK Youth Parliament and the British Youth Council, giving North Yorkshire’s youth a national voice."

Co-ordinator James Parkes said : "There is no doubting the enthusiasm and motivation of the NYYC members.

"Our biggest challenge is the logistical problem of trying to get up to 40 young people, many from the far reaches of the county, together in one place."

Any young person interested in becoming involved in the youth councils should contact james.parkes@northyorks.gov.uk or call 07854 498528.