SIXTH-formers will be at the forefront of a new campaign to persuade other young people to use their vote.

A group of teenagers at North Durham Academy, in Stanley are producing a short film encouraging others to take part in the democratic process.

The students, aged from 16 to 18, are working with Durham County Council and not-for-profit organisation Bite The Ballot to produce the video.

The film will be part of a wide-ranging, non-political campaign across County Durham which aims to show first-time voters how to register to vote and to encourage them to get involved.

Katie O’Malley, a Year 12 student at the academy, said: “If you don’t vote, you don’t have a say in who comes to power.

“I am really looking forward to making the video to encourage other young people to vote with fresh ideas.”

Head of Year 12 Ben Watson, said: “This is a tremendous opportunity for pupils to learn more about our democratic process and to try to make a difference where they live.

“They had the chance to observe the count at this week’s county council by-election for the Dipton and Burnopfield seat and they are really animated about being at the forefront this campaign.”

Linda Spence, principal electoral officer at the council, said: “This is a great way to raise awareness about how you register to vote, who can vote and why it matters.

“By working with young people and Bite The Ballot I hope we will see a rise in the number of youngsters using their vote in the county.”

Megan Patterson, 21, of Bite The Ballot, said: “Our aim is simple. We want to empower young people to have their voices heard.

“It’s exciting to be working on a project like this and one which is particularly close to my heart because next spring’s general election is also the first time I will be eligible to take part in a national vote.”

The video, which launches in January, will feature on the council’s website and be shared with other schools and colleges.