A record-breaking number of votes were cast in the 2017 Greenwich Young People’s council election. 

Sixty young people stood for election across 14 secondary schools in the borough, with an overall turnout of 69.4 per cent.

All election candidates, their parents, friends and teachers were invited to a special election night celebration at Woolwich Town Hall on November 29, where the 32 new youth councillors were announced.

They will spend the next two years representing their peers and influencing decision-making. Outgoing councillors received certificates from the Mayor, Councillor Peter Brooks, thanking them for their contribution. Councillor Chris Kirby, cabinet member covering the Children and Young People portfolio, gave advice to the new young councillors and encouragement to those who were unsuccessful on this occasion.

Candidates could choose to represent one of 14 schools – Corelli College, Eltham Hill, Greenwich Free School, Harris Academy Greenwich, Newhaven, Plumstead Manor, St Mary Magdalene, St Paul’s Academy, St Thomas More, Stationers’ Crown Woods, The John Roan, Thomas Tallis, Willow Dene School or Woolwich Polytechnic – or represent one of three areas – Eltham East and New Eltham, Greenwich and Blackheath or Woolwich and Charlton.