New youth mayor for Mansfield

Samworth Church Academy pupil Jake Baldry, 16, signed his pledge at a ceremony at Mansfield District Council’s Civic Centre on Monday.

He will represent young people across the district, taking their voice to the mayor, members and council officers.

The keen rugby player wants to focus on getting young people more involved in sport.

He said: “Sport is good for young people’s mental and physical health. It makes you fitter, helps you to make friends and results in less stress and depression.”

Jake also wants to get involved with fundraising and charity events, as he believes it brings communities together and gives young people a chance to show their strengths.

He added: “I want young people to think about their talents and interests and maybe come up with ways of using their skills to raise money for charity.

“I would like to see more young people in Mansfield getting involved in events like Children in Need and Comic Relief, and raising the profile of those charities. “

Jake also has a particular interest in supporting Cancer Research - a charity close to his heart, as members of his family have suffered the disease.

Jake also said he would like to improve sex education by making young people more aware of the dangers and to help them keep safe.s

And he mentioned he would also like to build stronger links with the British Youth Council.

Jake is the eighth youth mayor and he was elected after a Mansfield schools election - he was the only eligible candidate.

He will replace outgoing youth mayor Danielle Bridges, who was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a framed certificate for her hard work over the last year.

Councillor Stephen Harvey, vice-chairman of the district council, thanked Danielle for her work and said she had been an excellent ambassador for both the council and young people.

He also wished Jake well in his forthcoming role.

Mansfield mayor Kate Allsop said the council is delighted to welcome Jake as Mansfield’s new youth mayor.

She said: “His role not only encourages young people to become engaged in the political process, but also provides a strong representation of the youth voice in the district.

“We look forward to supporting him in the delivery of his manifesto.”