Ypungsters across Leeds are being urged to vote for the next Children’s Lord Mayor – with a Pudsey youngster standing as one of the candidates.
Charlie Readman from Southroyd Primary School in Pudsey is in the shortlist of 12 children across the city.
In his election manifesto, Charlie highlights the importance of wellbeing, exercise an healthy diet. He wrote:
“If I was Children’s Mayor of Leeds I would organise an annual inter school exercise, sports, activities and healthy eating event to promote wellbeing through exercise and good food. I would arrange and help set up the event in a park or large open space such as Horsforth Park or Queens Park.
“I would invite local healthy food and drink businesses to come and offer everyone to try brand new foods and drinks. I would try to get local PE teachers or qualified sports coaches to teach fun, engaging and enjoyable activities. This could change many children’s opinions on sports and make them want to continue to exercise and try new things.
My idea will hopefully help to reduce obesity and mental health / wellbeing across the schools in the area and encourage children of all abilities to participate and enjoy sports and exercise. This will also show children how delicious healthy food can be and persuade them to make better choices of what they eat.
“Local businesses will also benefit as children and their families will recommend others around the area who may have never heard of the business to try their food and drink. The whole event will also be climate change friendly as different bins for different items will be provided to recycle as well as paper straws and packaging at every stall.”
Now entering its 19th year, the Leeds Children’s Mayor programme encourages year 5 learners to think about citizenship and democracy.
To vote in the Leeds Children’s Mayor elections 2021, you must be aged 18 or under, live in or go to school or college in Leeds and cast your vote.
The winner will be announced on 1st November and voting closes in October.
Votes can be cast here.