Members of Breckland Youth Council have gathered to celebrate their many achievements since it formed two years ago.

Councillors, parents and friends were invited to a presentation and learned about some of the projects and initiatives the young people have been involved in.

Chairman Stuart Green – the country’s youngest district councillor – welcomed guests and described how the youth council had given him the confidence to stand for election in the Dereham and Humbletoft ward.

“My experience as a youth councillor showed me the importance of democracy and that, by speaking up, you can really make a difference,” he said. “Young people have a voice and I believe that their views must be heard and considered”.

The youth councillors have worked with Breckland Council to allocate �20,000 to 15 projects which have benefited young people in the area, including the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) group, which made an awareness-raising DVD with its �3,000 grant.

Other activities have included a campaign to tackle age-related stereotyping, the Pride in Breckland Youth Awards, visiting schools to talk about the role of the youth council and seeing democracy in action at the Houses of Parliament.

Diana Irving, Breckland’s young people’s champion said: “Breckland’s elected members are immensely proud of what the youth councillors have achieved during their term of office and the help that they have given to their peers.

“I hope that all of those who are moving on will be able to look back and feel that it has been a meaningful chapter in their lives.”

The youth council is looking for new members. Call Steph Barnard on 01362 656870 for more information. Applications must be received by September 30.