ELECTION fever is once again sweeping through Bolton ­— but this time it's the turn of the young people to put themselves forward as candidates to represent the town's youth.

A drop-in session is being held this week for those interested in standing as Youth MPs, with elections taking place in April.

And current Youth MPs Jonathan Owen, aged 16, and Ella Tinniswood, aged 15, are urging young people to step forward.

" I’d urge young people to stand as it is the most effective way to make a difference within Bolton," said Jonathan, who attends Thornleigh Salesian Sixth Form College, "Not only that it gives you so many invaluable opportunities and for me has massively expanded my social circle, enlightening me on different people’s experiences and views and giving me unforgettable experiences."

He added: "I’d encourage young people to vote as it is a good habit to get into and will prepare them for elections in the future. Voting is essential in any democratic society."

Jonathan said: "I decided to stand as Youth MP as I had been involved with the Bolton Youth Council for two years prior and decided to step up my involvement. I am passionate about issues that affect young people and wanted to help address those."

Westhoughton High School pupil Ella added: "I know that a lot of people feel as though their vote doesn’t matter, but if more young people vote, their voices will make a difference. Young people really are the future of Bolton, so we need to have a say in how it’ll be now to change it for the future.

"I decided to run because I thought it would be an amazing opportunity to be able to make a difference and represent what young people stand for."

The two have got involved with campaigns on a regional and national level, including taking part in a debate at the Houses of Parliament on the issues that matter most to young people ­— mental health, knife crime and the curriculum. Ella said that this was one way young people can make a "positive change".

Jonathan believes young people can make a difference saying: "Greta Thunberg has shown the world that nobody is too small to make a difference."

He added: "Being a youth MP has given me friends for life, as it’s put me into contact with people I’d have otherwise had no idea existed! Being youth MP has also made me much more independent, and more worldy wise. I feel I’ve definitely come out of my shell and developed a strong personality."

Ella added: "I’ve definitely changed from the experience as the experiences of public speaking and getting your voice heard increase your confidence massively."

A session for those aged 11-to-18 interested in standing as a Youth MP will take place at the Castle Hill Young People's Centre on Thursday from 6pm until 7pm.