BLACKBURN'S new Youth MP today urged fellow teenagers to prove that young people can be a credit to society.

Declan Maguire, 15, a pupil at Our Lady and St John High School, in North Road, Blackburn, was elected to the position after a vote held at schools and community centres around the borough. He officially took over from Rahima Patel this week.

Declan said: "I wanted to be Youth MP because I wanted to show a better side of young people, as I believe we do not get a fair deal from the media on many occasions. I look forward to carrying on the great work of Rahima and look forward to meeting new people."

In his role as Youth MP he will be responsible for working with the council's youth forum, which has been set up to consult with younger people on policies which affect them.

He will also attend national Youth Parliaments, where Government listens to the concerns of young people.

His deputies are St Wilfrid's pupil Latifa Patel, and Paul Fallon, of St Bede's High School, all in Blackburn.

Council leader Bill Taylor said Declan would have to work hard to match the commitment shown by Rahima. He said: "I am delighted and privileged to have worked with Rahima and welcome Declan as the new Youth MP and Latifa and Paul as his deputies.

"This council is really proud of these young people who, at a time of so-called widespread apathy among young people, are setting an example and making a real difference in the community.

"Particular praise must go to Rahima, who has been a fantastic ambassador for the borough and herself. Declan, Latifa and Paul will have a tough act to follow, but will no doubt be looking forward to the challenge with relish, ensuring that young people's issues remain high on the political agenda. Who knows, in a few years' time we may be lucky enough to see in our council chamber some of these young people representing parts of the borough. Some may even go on to follow in the footsteps of Jack Straw, down to Westminster and government."

Rahima said: "This was a unique experience which I have thoroughly enjoyed. I have received great support from the council, the Youth Service and other Youth Forum members, for which I am extremely grateful. "

Declan added: "If anyone out there has an issue they would like to discuss with me then they can email me on d.maguire@blackburnmail.com"