UK Youth Parliament member Rachael Ward has gone on line and is waiting to hear to from you.

Rachael is at youngpeoplesvoice@wiganmbc.gov.uk to raise issues they feel are important to young people in Wigan Borough.

The 18 year-old from Golborne, said: "The new email address is an easy way for young people to get in touch with me about anything at all -- whether it be an issue over something in their area or something they'd like raised with local councillors or MPs.

"Since becoming a MYP in February this year I've tried really hard to listen to the opinions and concerns of as many young people as I can.

"However, unlike adult MPs, I haven't been able to hold surgeries, as this is only a part-time role and I don't have the same facilities and resources as them. "With this new email address, however, I can communicate more effectively and I urge all young people in the borough to get in touch."

Wigan Council is hosting the address and all enquiries will be vetted before being past on to Rachael. Therefore, she won't be able to respond immediately to young people but all emails will be acted on.

Rachael's interest and active role in politics, and that of her deputy MYP's Michaela Nield, Lisa Parry and Wayne Warren, is quite uncommon amongst local young people.

Last year a Boroughwide Youth Council was set up to encourage youth participation in decision-making.

However, interest in the scheme hasn't been quite as high as anticipated and MYP Rachael wants more people to get involved.

The Boroughwide Youth Council is held on the first Sunday of every month at Ince Community Centre. Further details from Angela Wood on 07946 673466.