YOUNG people in Ilminster can have their say on the future of the town thanks to a new youth council which starts next week.

The first meeting of Ilminster Youth Council will be held in the council chamber in North Street on Thursday, February 23, from 3.45pm with youngsters aged nine up to the voting age of 18 invited to attend.

Representatives from Swanmead Community School have been selected and discussions have also been held with Greenfylde First School.

Now it is hoped more young people will attend the launch and offer their views on a range of issues affecting Ilminster.

Town councillor Sian Sainsbury is leading the project and hopes to get more youngsters engaged with the community.

Those coming forward can be involved in groups or organisations, or can be passionate about Ilminster’s future.

Cllr Sainsbury said: “It’s about taking responsibility for the community, and we’re looking for more young people to come forward.

“Hopefully, then we won’t have the problem of a lack of councillors standing for election in future.”

The opportunity follows a successful consultation over the recent skate park project in which a number of children expressed opinions on the equipment they would like to see at the recreation ground facility.

The youth council should ensure that youngsters’ views can be represented when future decisions are made.

Cllr Sainsbury said: “The idea is that the youth council will make it clear in future what they want – this is a search for young people who live in Ilminster who want to come on board.”

While parents are not expected to attend meetings they are welcome to attend the launch of the youth council next week when more information will be distributed.

FOR more details on Ilminster Youth Council call the town council offices on 01460-52149.