Every 11 to 17-year-old who lives, works or studies in Lewisham is eligible to vote or stand as a mayoral candidate.
In 2005, 33 youngsters stood as mayoral candidates after collecting 30 nominations from other young people (in 2004 40 candidates stood) Each attended a campaign workshop which discussed the role, how to run a campaign, defining your message, writing an election statement and how to deal with the media.
The candidates all wrote a 200-word manifesto, which was posted on the Young Mayor's website and circulated in schools.
They then campaigned for three weeks using personalised stickers and campaign posters provided by the council.
On election day eligible Lewisham residents voted using a system which mirrors that of the adult mayor.
In 2005 8,103 young people voted - a 46.86 per cent turnout and up from 44.6 per cent in 2004.
An election results event is then held at the civic suite.
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