YOUNGSTERS hoping to become Bolton's next Youth MPs have spelled out why they think their peers should vote for them.

Voting got under way yesterday to select the borough's two representatives to sit in the UK Youth Parliament.

A mobile polling station rolled into Rumworth School at the beginning of seven days in which those aged 11 to 18 will be able to cast their votes.

Two "voting vans" will be visiting schools and youth clubs across the borough and one will be in Victoria Square, Bolton, between 11am and 2pm tomorrow.

Six candidates are hoping to be elected as a Youth MP which will involve attending national and regional meetings to help decide how government funding will be spent on youth projects.

The two successful candidates will replace Youth MPs James Murray and Niall McGloin, both aged 17, from Thornleigh Salesian.

And each of the six candidates has spelled out what he or she has to offer.

Aamna Alam, aged 13, from Hayward School, Morris Green, said: "I am standing for all young people who are out there thinking We want things to change'.

"If you vote for me, I will work hard for these changes and prove that young people's voices make people take action."

Florenne Bolfeo, aged 15, from Withins School, Breightmet, said: "I want to be your Youth MP and help you stand up for yourself. I will make sure that all young people are listened to and that your views will not only be heard but acted upon."

John Durkin, aged 16, from Bolton Community College, said: "I want to promote sporting opportunities for the young people of Bolton.

"I have good conversational skills and I consider this to be important. I am not afraid to stand up for my peers regarding issues around young people."

Kirsty Corbally, aged 14, a home-educated student from Great Lever, said: "I am a good listener and will take on your views of the problems you have where you live and help fight your cause.

"I can make a big difference on your behalf."

Nafisah Atcha, aged 17, from Westhoughton High School sixth-form, said: "I will represent Bolton's young people to the best of my ability.

"I am a confident speaker, which is important, and I'm not afraid to say what I think.

"I am a fair person and am easy to approach about serious issues."

Zuhayr Adia, aged 11, from Bolton School Boys' Division, said: "I am hoping to be the new generation of Youth MP for Bolton in 2008.

"I am interested in becoming a Youth MP because I feel that young people do not have enough say.

"If I am elected, I will campaign to ensure that local councillors and MPs pay more attention to the views of young people."

The winners will be announced at Bolton Town Hall next Thursday.