TWO Bridport students who stood for election to the UK Youth Parliament have been elected to represent Dorset as a Member of Youth Parliament and their Deputy.

Stanley Bowden, who is in Year 11 at the Sir John Colfox Academy, has become Dorset Council’s newly-elected Member of Youth Parliament. Sapphire Pearse, in Year 10 at the same school, was elected as a deputy.

Members of Youth Parliament represent Dorset on a regional and national basis, helping to engage young people in politics, democracy and citizenship. In partnership with Dorset Youth Council, they deliver a #YouthVoice manifesto to improve the lives of young people.

During his campaign Mr Bowden promised students he’d tackle uniform restrictions and campaign for more action on climate change and plastic pollution – he’d also like to see more places where young people can express themselves.

Mr Bowden, Dorset Council’s newly elected Member of Youth Parliament, said in his acceptance speech: “I’m honoured to be the new Member of the Youth Parliament.

“I’d like to thank my family and my school for their support, my opponents for a good contest, and I’d like to thank everyone who voted – I will do my best to represent you to the best of my ability, thank you.”

The election results were announced on Tuesday, March 15 at a ceremony at County Hall in Dorchester.

A total of three candidates stood for election and 5,762 students voted after weeks of campaigning.

Miss Pearse, who was elected Deputy Member alongside fellow candidate Kerim Smajilagic from Sherborne School said: “I’d like to thank all those who voted, we all want to work for a more equal and fair society. I’d like to congratulate Stan and wish him every success.”

Students at the Sir John Colfox Academy enjoyed voting in the Youth Parliament elections and learning about the importance of democracy and how they can all take part and make a difference.

Adam Shelley, Headteacher at the Sir John Colfox Academy, said: “We are extremely proud of Stan and Saffi, congratulations to them on a fantastic achievement.

“It is brilliant to have two students from Colfox representing Dorset at a national level in the UK Youth Parliament.”