Political speed dating will raise issues
4:10pm Sunday 12th October 2008
EFFORTS to encourage youngsters to take an interest in local politics will include the unlikely pastime of speed dating.
Local Democracy Week begins tomorrow (Monday) as part of efforts to bridge the gap between young people and the councillors who represent them.
South Lakeland District Council, Cumbria County Council and Connexions Cumbria have all joined forces to host the Political Speed Dating event at The Low Wood Hotel, Ambleside, on Wednesday, from 10am to 2.30pm.
Young people from local schools and colleges have been invited to take part and will question local councillors for three minutes about issues which concern them.
Coun Hilary Stephenson, SLDC portfolio holder for central services, will be the guest compere.
She said: "This is one of the best ways to make contact with a group of people in our community from whom we don't often hear enough.
"Their views and opinions are highly important and will help us as councillors understand their needs and concerns much more easily."