As part of this year's Local Democracy Week, members of the Aylesbury Vale Youth Cabinet are taking part in a political speed dating event organised by the district council.

The youngsters, aged 13 to 19, will have the opportunity to grill local councillors and find out who is most in tune with their needs and opinions.

The event will run in a similar way to conventional speed dating, only young people have three minutes to spend with each councillor asking them about the issues important to them. At the end of the session they move on to the next councillor.

Each councillor will receive a score on qualities such as approachability, listening skills and the ability to understand the issues presented to them. At the end of the event the figures will be added up and the councillor most approachable for young people will be identified.

The evening with councillors is one of a number of events taking place across the country to celebrate Local Democracy Week, which runs from October 13 to 19. The campaign aims to encourage young people to become involved in their community and the wider democratic process.

Cllr John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: "Political speed dating is a fun and light-hearted way for young people to meet councillors and discover what they do for the community. It works both ways too – it will give elected members a better understanding of youth issues."

The political speed dating event is being hosted at the Southcourt Community Centre in Aylesbury on October 17 between 6pm and 8pm.