FUTURE First Ministers and potential politicians in the Vale will be taking to their soapboxes next week as they vie for the position of Youth Mayor.

Young people will be honing their debating skills and fine-tuning their manifestos ahead of Local Democracy Week during which young people will also be voting for their Youth Mayor.

Contesting the position are Bronwen Lloyd and Daniel Marshall, both 15, from Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg, Barry and Cowbridge Comprehensive School respectively and Rhys Powell, 13, from Barry Comprehensive.

They are all serving members of the Vale of Glamorgan Youth Cabinet and Vale Youth Forum.

Leader of Vale of Glamorgan Council Neil Moore said: “The Vale of Glamorgan Council is leading the way in trying to engage with perhaps the next generation of leaders.

“In 2014 we established the first Youth Cabinet, Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor. Giving a voice and a platform to our young people is important.

“Local Democracy Week proved to be a great success in the Vale last year and is something that’s really worth shouting about.

“I want to wish Bronwen, Daniel and Rhys the very best next week and encourage schools and students across the Vale to get involved and get behind them. Pob lwc – good luck!”

The candidates have created manifestos which can be viewed here:

An interview with the candidates will also be aired on Bro Roadio with Geoff and Guests on Monday, October 12 at 2.20pm.

The Youth Mayor Election campaign will be taken on the road to different secondary schools, training providers, youth clubs and youth organisations across the Vale of Glamorgan to ensure as many young people aged 11 to 25 have the opportunity to vote through Monday October 12 to Friday, October 16.

For more information about the LDW campaign, please contact Bethan Watkins, Youth Participation Worker on 02920 701254 or email BWatkins@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk