FIVE young people from Colchester look set for a career in politics.

They are among 75 youngsters who have been elected to the Young Essex Assembly after a three-month election campaign, which saw about 19,000 votes cast in schools, libraries and youth centres and online.

The results were unveiled in Chelmsford this week.

The Colchester representatives will be Gregory Hayman, from St Helena School, Shivani Rathod and Katie Scales, both from from Colchester County High School for Girls, Camomile Shumba and Lauren Gooch.  

Ray Gooding, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for Education, said: “The Young Essex Assembly plays an important role in democracy in Essex and a vital link between young people and local government.

“As a council we are always keen to listen to fresh ideas and we look forward to working closely with the newly-elected members over the next two years.”