YOUNG people are being invited to speak up on the matters which affect their everyday lives.

Lewisham Council wants more youngsters aged 11 to 17 to join its Young Citizens' Panel, so they can have their say on key issues.

Once young people have signed up to the panel they will be consulted on issues such as health, education, leisure and the environment.

The youngsters are contacted by the council through a variety of methods including email and text message.

Since it was launched in March 2004, more than 300 young people have signed up to the panel.

Its views are passed on to the borough's young mayor Wilf Petherbridge, who was elected in October last year. To sign up, visit b-involved.org.uk or call 020 8314 6313.