COUNCIL bosses have come up with a new way of getting more people to vote - letting them make their choice at a younger age.

Leading councillors are warning adults to expect to be put to shame next month as the majority of Lancashire's youngsters go to the polls to vote for their representatives on the new youth council.

The youth council is the product of 12 months of talking between leading county councillors and and teenagers.

It is hoped that, by setting up a youth council, teenagers will see from an early age how their vote can make a difference.

Several boroughs -- including Hyndburn and Pendle -- have youth councils, which work to improve things for youngsters in their boroughs.

At county level, there will be one youth councillor for each of Lancashire's electoral divisions.

They will meet regularly at County Hall and be consulted on issues which affect them by the council, police and health authorities.

In addition, youngsters will also vote several representatives on to Britain's UK Youth Parliament.

Last year, a youth manifesto setting out the aims of the youth council was created.

County Coun Alan Whittaker, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, said: "At a time when voter turnout is down in national elections, it is vitally important that we engage young people in the democratic process.

"I am very encouraged by their enthusiasm and by the fresh ideas contained in their manifesto."

The manifesto contains proposals on how to create safer environments for young and older people; stronger action on bullying; better drugs and health education in schools; improved access to leisure facilities; and the right to be consulted on issues which directly affect young people.

Elections to Lancashire Youth Council and the UK Youth Parliament will take place in next month.

Lancashire Youth Council will be officially opened on Friday, March 8 at County Hall.