Metro Mayor Dan Norris found himself tackling some pretty searching questions when he attended the 100th meeting of Keynsham’s Youth Council.

The Mayor was invited to the Keynsham Civic Centre to learn more about the work of the Keynsham Now Council as part of UK Parliament Week.

Mr Norris was asked tough but fair questions on what the West of England Combined Authority is doing to address challenges on the buses, the cost-of-living crisis, votes at 16 - and maybe a maximum voting age too(!) - mental health, and the work the Mayor is doing to tackle the number one issue for Keynsham youngsters right now - the climate crisis.

The visit was arranged to mark UK Parliament Week, an education scheme to increase young people’s understanding of politics.

Mayor Norris is encouraging all West of England schools and youth groups to take part.

He said: “I really enjoyed my opportunity to answer questions from young people from across Keynsham about what it means to be their Metro Mayor.

“We talked about how many people describe problems rather than coming up with solutions - but that doesn’t help residents!

“The youth council gave me a good grilling and came up with some great ideas.

“We had a long discussion on the need for more bus drivers.

“It just goes to show how vital it is that we get more of our young people get involved in our democracy because when they do, they shine”.

• For more information on how your school or youth group could get involved in UK Parliament Week, visit the website: www.ukparliamentweek.org/en/