By Jill Stocks
The campaign to be the new Children’s Mayor for Leeds is well under way and Arthur from Horsforth is just one of the candidates hoping he can count on your vote.
Arthur Foulkes, who attends Broadgate Primary School, is one of 11 finalists in the race to be the new mayor.
Year five pupils across the city submitted their manifestos in June with the shortlist announced in July. Voting is now open for under 18’s to choose their two favourite candidates and closes on September 25th with the new mayor beginning their one year term in October.
Councillor Emmie Bromley (Lab, Horsforth) attended Broadgate primary in June along with Horsforth Town Council Chair Simon Dowling to meet children preparing their manifestos and they are thrilled that one of those pupils has made the shortlist.
Cllr Bromley said: “I am proud to see that Arthur is not only representing Horsforth in the final candidates list but also advocating for a number of families who will benefit from his manifesto across Leeds. This is really inspiring to see, thank you Arthur and see you at The Civic for the results!”
Cllr Dowling added: “We are absolutely thrilled to see Arthur shortlisted as one of the final candidates for Leeds Children’s Mayor. To be selected from so many young people across the city is a fantastic achievement and one that Arthur should be incredibly proud of.
“His manifesto shines a light on an important issue, ensuring every child has the same opportunities regardless of their circumstances, and it is wonderful to see such passion and commitment from a young person in our community.
“We wish Arthur the very best of luck in the election and would encourage everyone in Horsforth who is under the age of 18 to cast their vote and support Arthur to become Leeds Children’s Mayor.”
Arthur’s family are very proud of him too. Mum Dannie said: “We are incredibly proud of Arthur. Reaching the final 11 is a huge achievement, but what makes us proudest is his determination to make life fairer for other children.
“His own experiences have given him an understanding that not every child has the same opportunities, and his passion for creating a more equal future shines through in everything he’s campaigning for.”
Arthur’s manifesto focuses on the impact of poverty on children’s lives across the city. In it, Arthur says: “I will encourage kindness, inclusion and teamwork. Small actions can make big differences if we work together as a city. Leeds is an amazing place to live, I want to help it be better for so many children.
“One Leeds, one future, every child included. I want every child in Leeds to feel valued, have access to the same opportunities and I want to raise awareness of child poverty.”
You can read the manifestos of all the candidates, including Lydia from Kirkstall Valley Primary and Naomi from Rosebank Primary in Burley, and find the link to vote online here.
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