Josh, 18, is new youth mayor

Oldham’s new Youth Mayor, Josh Payne

A NEW youth mayor took office in Oldham today. Josh Payne (18) succeeds Chantel Birtwistle after four years on the Oldham Youth Council.

During that time he has been involved in several community and voluntary programmes.

The Royton teenager was an ambassador for the award-winning Every Life Matters Campaign and as an Oldham member of the UK Youth Parliament, represented the borough in a House of Commons debate.

He is also a member of the Youthforia — the North-West regional youth forum and is a leader on an award-winning community cohesion project organised by the council’s Integrated Youth Service.

Josh will carry out civic duties alongside the Mayor, Councillor Olwen Chadderton, and will also represent the borough’s young people at community events.

Josh said: “I decided to get involved because of the opportunity the youth council provided to influence decisions affecting young people in Oldham without having to become involved in party politics.”

Oldham Council leader, Councillor Jim McMahon said: “I would like to welcome Josh to the role of Youth Mayor. It is vital our young people are given a voice in shaping the borough and helping to improve it for future generations.”



Follow us on Twitter - @OldhamChronicle