POLITICS and youngsters do not tend to go hand in hand.

But Warrington's next generation of voters challenged the idea of political apathy when more than 5,000 took part in a national campaign to highlight their views on a number of burning issues currently facing society.

Young residents from Warrington Youth Service, along with 13 schools and colleges from across the borough, took part in the 'Make Your Mark' campaign.

The country's largest youth consultation asked for the opinions of those aged 11 to 18.

But it proved to be an extremely telling experience for Rose Warburton, Warrington's youth parliament member, who found her way to the dispatch box at the House of Commons.

Rose was elected as debate lead with Youth Focus – the north west's regional participation team.

She attended the House of Commons on November 13 with other members of youth parliament (MYP) from across the country to discuss and debate the results of the campaign.

Rose led the debate with a passionate speech about transport for young people at the annual sitting.

However, she is not a newcomer to debating in the Commons, having given a speech in a debate marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War last year, which was broadcast live on the BBC.

"The experience has been one of the best I have been lucky enough to have," said the 16-year-old, from Orford.

"I learned valuable skills in speaking, made lifelong friendships with 14 others from each region of the country and have hopefully made the north west proud – especially IMPACT, colleagues, friends and family.

"The responsibility, pressure and expectations upon you are great but have been worth it and more.

"I was sitting in the Prime Minister's usual seat and when I stood up to walk to the despatch box I was terrified.

"But fellow MYPs were cheering so loudly to support me that I was worried my emotions would overwhelm me in such an amazing atmosphere.

"Looking back, I have learned that there is genuinely no better feeling than representing a generation to be proud of."

Cllr Jean Carter, executive member for children's services, added: "To see so many young people engaged in the political process is very heartening indeed.

"At a time when so many speak of apathy in young voters, it is even more important that the voices of young people inform the future locally and nationally.

"We are very proud of Rose and all of our young people."

IMPACT is Warrington's youth council and is supported by Warrington Youth Service.

For further information call 851029 or e-mail iprobert@warrington.gov.uk.