More than 12,000 young people cast their vote in this year’s youth Election to choose new members of the UK Youth Parliament.

Out of 10 possible candidates the young people of Redbridge voted Amishta Aubeelack and Bruna Franco as their new representatives.

The two new members of youth parliament (MYP) and deputy Ayesha Alohan-Eke from Seven Kings High School in Ley Street, Ilford will join more than 600 teens across the country to create the parliament.

Their job will be to ensure the voices of young people are heard at national, regional and local levels.

Amishta, from Woodford County High School, listed one of her priorities as maximising employment opportunities.

She said: “I aim to organise a workshop, where we make it known to students which corporations happily offer work experience.

“This will be of utmost benefit to the youth and a great way of promoting social mobility, as well as learning essential life skills.”

Bruna, who attends Chadwell Heath Academy in Christie Gardens, Chadwell Heath aims to encourage the reduction of racism and religious discrimination and challenge mental health stereotypes.

She said: “Having lived in Redbridge for most of my life, I have grown up around people of many faiths.

“Given current events, it is important that we celebrate our differences instead of fearing them.”

A total of 12049 votes were cast, the most since 2008 showing young people in the borough are keen to have their voice heard.

Cllr Elaine Norman, cabinet member for children and young people, thanked outgoing MYPs James Edwards and Bridget Okhioigbe for their hard work and wished their successors good luck.

She said: “We are proud to have so many young people that care deeply about the future of the borough and help to shape it to better reflect the views and the needs of young people.