YOUNGSTERS in Hertfordshire are going to the polls from this week to elect their new Members of the UK Youth Parliament.

The election process started on Monday, giving young people aged 11 to 19 a chance to have their say on who they want to represent their views on issues such as drugs and street crime.

One of the 19 candidates competing for one of the six MYP seats and six deputy MYP places available is Tamanna Ferdousi from Hatfield.

The 16-year-old, who attends Bishop’s Hatfield Girls’ School, said: “I want to be an MYP as I believe I will make a change to our society for young people.

“Firstly, I plan to change the transport system.

“I want to make it more pleasant for everyone – I believe I can do this by making transport fares cheaper.”

She added: “Everyone has a right for their voices to be heard, no matter what age they are.

“I want to be the face, mouth and ears of all young people.”

County councillor Richard Thake, executive member for education and skills, said the election is a “great” opportunity for the young people of Hertfordshire to have their say on issues that concern them.

He said: “I urge as many [people] as possible to use their vote.

“For some it will be their first taste of taking part in a democratic electoral system and one which I hope will encourage them to continue voting throughout their life.”

The poll shuts at noon on February 5. The results will be announced on February 13.

To vote, visit www.channelmogo.org