Young must get out and vote, says Telford's youngest councillor

Councillor Connor Furnival, who was just 21 when he was elected in 2015, said it was important that his generation made the most of the opportunity to shape their future.

Statistics suggest that younger people are much less likely to turn out to vote than their older peers.

At the 2015 General Election, turnout among the under 25s was 43 per cent, compared to 78 per cent for those aged 65 and over.

Councillor Furnival, who represents The Nedge ward on Telford & Wrekin Council, said it was crucial that young people made their voices hears as Britain entered Brexit negotiations.

“I believe this election to be probably one of the most important elections for people of my generation and younger as this vote will shape the significant challenges we face and our aspirations for the future," he said.

"As we enter the Brexit negotiations it is important that our young people use this opportunity to vote for the government they feel will secure the best deal and outcomes for Britain, as Brexit will affect them the most in the years to come.

"It is important to look at the policies of parties, their manifestos and their ability to govern and lead the country, as well as their historical promises and how they have delivered on these promises in the past."

Councillor Furnival urged all young people in the borough to take part in Thursday's election.

“Brexit is going to shape our future and it is the future of our young people who it is going to affect the most," he added.

"I was once 18 not that long ago, and I remember at the time dealing with college and other matters which I felt affected me more directly than national politics did.

"However, national government defines our laws and influences our everyday life. Therefore, it is imperative we exercise our democratic right and vote on June 8."