Young people in Devon are being given the chance to elect three representatives to the United Kingdom Youth Parliament.

Devon has been split into three separate areas and candidates have been shortlisted for each area.

They have written election addresses which are being distributed to as many young people aged from 11 to 18 as possible.

Voters are then able to vote for two candidates from a list of up to five in each area.

People are not aware of how Parliament and councils function and how they can get their views across Cllr Joan Morrish

Voting will begin on Monday, 13 January in schools and youth centres, with the results announced on 25 January at the Coaver Club in Exeter.

Devon has three seats in the Youth Parliament and members (MYPs) have to be aged between 11 and 18. Devon youngsters can also elect three deputy MYPs.

Devon County Council member Joan Morrish said she hoped the election would spark young people's interest in local democracy and how Parliament and councils worked.

She added that it would also help reverse the trend towards low voting turn-outs in elections.

"People are not aware of how Parliament and councils function and how they can get their views across," she said.

"It is very important we start with young people to demonstrate there are ways for them to make their voices heard and to influence and shape policy."