On Monday 18th February 2019 elections were held at the Town Hall to elect the new Member of Youth Parliament and the Deputy for Blackpool. The candidates read their manifestos to the audience followed by the online votes and paper votes being collected resulting in 15-year-old Andrew Speight, a pupil of Highfield Leadership Academy successfully becoming the newly elected Blackpool Member of Youth Parliament. Andrew based his manifesto on Education, Work and Crime. Katie Lagden, 14 years old, a pupil from Montgomery Academy was elected Deputy member of Youth Parliament. Both Andrew and Katie are passionate about having youth voices heard and are keen to work with local decision makers to see a difference and make changes across the town. 

Harry Bates- Outgoing MYP: “After two years my term as Blackpool’s MYP is over. I would like to thank everyone who supported me over these two years and offer the best of luck to Andrew and Katie. I fully support these two in their roles and continue to take an active role in Blackpool Youth Council. As Lancashire Representative for Youthforia North West I will support everyone in Lancashire in fulfilling their role at all levels.” 

Connor Danson- Outgoing DMYP: “Following their recent elections, I hope that the new UKYP representatives for Blackpool can continue to make young people’s voices heard. I would also like to say that as the now former DMYP, it was a privilege to represent the young people of Blackpool for the past 2 years.”

Andrew Speight- Newly elected MYP:
“I am delighted to be able to serve the young people of Blackpool and play my part in getting our voices heard. I look forward to campaigning and raising awareness of issues that young people are facing.”Katie Lagden- Newly elected DMYP:
“I look forward to putting the opportunity to good use.”