LEADING councillors will hear from youngsters who could take the political scene by storm in years to come as part of a special focus on democracy.

Members of Impact, formerly Warrington Youth Council, will meet with council leader Cllr Terry O'Neill and other executive board members at the youth café, on Buttermarket Street, later today, Thursday, to discuss issues facing young people in the borough.

The special meeting is one of a series of local democracy week events taking place in Warrington, aimed at engaging young people in politics and giving them the chance to air their views and speak to councillors.

Cllr Hitesh Patel, executive board member for personnel and communications, said: "To fully represent the interests of all residents it's vital that we, as councillors, are not seen as distant but are connecting with, and listening to, younger people.

"These events to mark local democracy week give us an opportunity to do just that.

"However, it's about more than just one-off events – we want to promote local democracy in all the work we do, every day.

"I'm really pleased that we are working with Impact to explore a number of issues around democracy, hold discussions and share ideas.

"They are a really valuable group for Warrington and we will continue to work with them to help bridge the gap and make democracy relevant to young people."

During next week, members of Impact, who were applauded at last month's full council meeting after delivering a manifesto, will join executive board member Cllr Tony Higgins for a 'ward walkabout' around Fairfield and Howley, to see issues facing councillors.

Group members will also join Cllr Russ Bowden, executive board member for corporate finance, for a live broadcast on Radio Warrington.

They'll discuss the council's budget and spending challenges before the phone lines are opened up to give residents the opportunity to get involved in the debate and ask questions.

The authority will be carrying out more work and developing new ideas in the coming months to 'engage citizens in local democracy'.

For further information visit warrington.gov.uk