MP Kevan Jones has met students from North Durham Academy, in Stanley, to discuss work they have been doing for the forthcoming General Election.

The North Durham representative met young people and discussed their work on voter registration, which has included production of a video for Durham County Council, encouraging young people to make sure they are on the electoral role.

Year 13 students from the schools have been working on the ‘Bite the Ballot’ campaign to persuade fellow teenagers to use their vote.

Mr Jones, who visited last Friday, said: “I was very impressed with the work the students at the academy have been doing on this hugely important subject.

“It is vital that we do all we can to get young people registered to vote, and the sort of work the students have been doing with Bite the Ballot plays an important part in this.

“It was a really interesting and enjoyable visit, discussing the subject with students.”

The project involved the production of a short film, about young people registering to vote in time for the General Election, which was launched at the academy on January 28.

The film shows first-time voters how to get involved in the democratic process.

Academy principal David Thornton said: “It is great to see young people getting involved in the political process.

“I am delighted that they feel strongly about the issues of the day and want to make this country a better place for themselves and their children.”