THEY say that young people have been put off politics, but that's certainly not the case in the Taunton area.

Three youth politicians paid a fact-finding mission to Deane House, home to Taunton Deane Borough Council.

Kira Lewis, member of The UK Youth Parliament for Taunton Deane and West Somerset, deputy member Eddie St George and Libby Checketts, a member of the local Youth Parliament Advisory Group, met council leader Cllr John Williams and assistant director of business and development Ian Timms.

They learned about the work of the authority and also had a briefing on the growth projects including Firepool, Coal Orchard and the Junction 25 employment site.

Kira said: “The Youth Parliament is very keen to work with the council on a local level to represent views of young people in our area.

"It was great to find out more about the exciting new developments set for Taunton and to discuss how young people can take a more active role.”

Mr Williams said: “It was a pleasure to host these young visitors.

"They have a real interest in local issues coupled with a superb knowledge of the democratic system.

"These qualities will stand them in good stead as they work towards a future in local and perhaps national Government.”