FORWARD-thinking teenagers will become honorary advisors to Thornbury leaders and play a major part in shaping the future of the town.

Young people are being sought by the town council to express their views, help tackle local issues and breathe new life into an increasingly ageing town.

A questionnaire was distributed last October to Marlwood and Castle School pupils, along with members of various youth groups and clubs asking them to list Thornbury’s strengths and shortcomings.

The results of the survey were reviewed by councillors who decided to set up a youth advisory panel allowing young people to address concerns raised by their peers.

Cllr Helen Harrison, who coordinated the consultation process and compiled the results, said: "The panel can include anybody, people who go to school, people who don't go to school, people who go to Filton College.

"We want this to be something that's available to all young people. We want to be able to hear directly from them what we can do to benefit young people in Thornbury."

Out of the 223 youths polled for the survey, an overwhelming majority listed "nothing/not enough to do" as their number one peeve.

They also blasted the "naff" shops, the High Street's overall unattractiveness to under-18s and complained about the lack of big retail names, ‘trendy’ independent stores and places for young people to hang out. The irregular and expensive bus service was also, it emerged, one of the town’s biggest downfalls in their eyes.

Newly elected mayor Phyllida Parsloe told the Gazette this new venture was crucial for Thornbury. She added that her four consorts, Laura Ottley, Hannah Swann, Eddie Harris-Lee and John Clarke, all from Marlwood School in Alveston, would be part of the panel.

She said: "The future of the town lies in the hands of these young people. The sooner they get to understand and influence what happens the better. It’s a great pleasure for me as mayor to work with them."

The panel will meet approximately once every half term. Members will have the opportunity to act as representatives at council meetings and other occasional gatherings relevant to issues being discussed.

To apply to join the panel or for more information contact Cllr Helen Harrison, who will be leading the group, on 01454 416818 or at helenhmail@gmail.com