A student has been elected to represent her peers in the UK Youth Parliament.

Sixteen-year-old Megan Barnes, who studies at Glenthorne High School, came top in the election polls beating six other candidates.

Almost 8,000 young people voted in Sutton’s February elections to choose a member, and deputy member to represent their views at a national level.

New deputy MYP Maria Francesca Finnerty, 16, from St Philomena’s High School, will start her new role alongside Miss Barnes.

Youth MP Miss Barnes, said: “I feel privileged to be representing all young people in Sutton at the Youth Parliament.

“I'm hoping that it's going to make a big difference to young people I’m really happy to be a part of it.

Miss Barnes said she wanted to see a more positive image of young people portrayed in the media.

She added: “I also want to try to make Sutton safer for young people walking home from school, so that they don’t feeling intimidated by groups or anxious about living in their local area.

“As well as safety, another major issue is that there is not enough for people to do and I would like to see a change in this too.

“I am looking forward to being able to be involved in changes for young people in the area.”

Executive Member for Children, Young People and Learning Services on Sutton Council, Councillorr Tony Brett Young, said the Youth Parliament was an excellent way for young people to have their voices heard.

As well as meeting with the national Youth Parliament, Miss Barnes and Miss Finnerty will be supported by Sutton Youth Parliament group members to discuss and deliver local and national campaigns.

For details about Sutton Youth Parliament email: youthparliament@suttonlea.org