A SCHOOLBOY from Hitchin is hoping to become the voice of North Herts youth, after putting himself forward to become a member of the Hertfordshire Youth Parliament.

Peter Saville, 14, a pupil at Hitchin Boys School, is one of 40 other young people across the county to go for one of six Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) county seats. There are also six deputy MYP places up for grabs.

If selected he will represent youngsters across the county, providing a voice for them in order to resolve local and national concerns.

“I’ve always been passionate about youth issues, having our say and getting involved in local communities,” said Peter.

“With the recent government budget cuts, the youth sector will be hit fairly hard, and it has brought up a number of issues.

“There are some big campaigns, and everyone putting themselves forward for the youth parliament is very passionate about what they do.

“But I think North Herts is under represented in the group. Most candidates are from South and East Herts, and are not capable of providing a voice for the youth in this area. I think I am that voice.

“I have been getting all my friends to vote, started a Facebook group and had the support of the school.”

Peter is the only pupil in Comet country to go for the position, and is up against youngsters from areas including Watford, St Albans and Hemel Hempstead.

This year, a record number of entries have been received. Elections begin next week on January 10 and ends on February 4. Anyone between the age of 11 and 18 in Hertfordshire can vote.