TEENAGERS are being called upon to join a youth council and add to weight to efforts to improve the local area for youngsters.

North Yorkshire County Council is seeking members for the councils as part of a recruitment drive to boost group numbers.

The move comes after three of North Yorkshire’s youth councillors got the chance to question local politicians at a British Youth Council meeting.

Devon Page, 15, of Scarborough plus Rosie Corrigan,17, and Ben Lacey, 16, of Richmond, asked the questions.

They spoke to Nic Dakin, Labour MP for Scunthorpe and Kris Hopkins, the Conservative MP for Keighley.

Councillor Caroline Patmore, the executive member for youth services, backs the scheme.

She said: "We are lucky in this county to have so many young people who are hard working and eager to get involved in local issues in order to make life better for their peers and the wider community.

"Being a member of a youth council is an ideal way of making your voice heard and having the opportunity to influence change for the better."

Youth councillors have to be aged between 13-19-years and they will take up the role in September and October.

To find out more young people should contact the council on 01609-780780 or visit its website at www.nyyc.co.uk.