OFFICERS for the new Epping Forest Youth Council have been elected following a programme of training and induction.

The council consists of 13 young people from local schools and five co-opted members who live in the district.

Youth councillor Claire Gilbert, from Fyfield, was elected chairman for the first meeting.

Also elected were Reece Williams (leader/chief executive liaison), Sam Clark (treasurer), Gabrielle Compton (communications co-ordinator), Simone Webb (secretary), Amy Lawrence (events co-ordinator) and Daniel Lake (website co-ordinator).

Members also discussed early plans for hosting/organising a districtwide youth debate later this year.

Youth Councillor Gabrielle Compton said: "We've all now began to gel as a group and would want other youths in the district to have the opportunity to air their views, so having a youth debate is a really good starting point.

The youth council also looked at the role of the Epping Forest Youth Bank, a forum which awards many local youth projects with thousands of pounds.

The full Youth Council will meet on a monthly basis and is looking to develop its branding and identify key issues and causes to pursue on the behalf of young people.