DANNY Brown, of Longfield Academy of Sport, in Darlington was tonight (Tuesday) elected to the UK's Youth Parliament after the biggest turnout since voting began.

The 14-year-old was among six hopefuls who had waited to see if they had won the right to represent their town.

After a turnout of 51 per cent, Danny received 791 votes. Josh Wakeford, 16, and from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, will act as deputy after receiving 779 votes.

Amy Merchant, 15 and also from Longfield, received 738 votes, Rachel Gunnell, 17, (Carmel College) 680, Joe Clark, 13, (Darlington School of Mathematics and Science) 592 and Joseph Barker, 13, (Darlington School of Mathematics and Science) 480.

All six spent a month campaigning to win a seat in the Parliament, which aims to give support and a voice to young people across the country.

Danny will help his peers have their say on issues in the town for the next two years and will represent the area at a House of Commons debate in November.

During their campaign trail, the students prepared manifestos, delivered flyers and took to social networking to spread their message.

Issues highlighted by the candidates included alcohol abuse, internet safety, disability awareness, health services and negative stereotypes of teenagers.

Ada Burns, chief executive of Darlington Borough Council, said: "It's fantastic that so many young people put themselves up for election and did so with such enthusiasm and energy and all candidates should be proud of themselves. I look forward to working with our new Youth MP."