A TYCROES teenager represented Wales at the recent UK Youth Parliament debate held in the House of Commons.

Alisha Gibbons, aged 14, joined 300 other youngsters aged between 11 and 18 in the debate which determined which two issues would become their priority campaigns.

She was one of 24 young people from Wales to be elected, however she was the only Welsh representative chosen to be a debate lead in the Commons chamber.

Alisha, who is a member of Carmarthenshire Youth Council, spoke at the dispatch box which the Prime Minister, the cabinet and the shadow cabinet use.

The Youth Parliament decided that their national issues would be tackling racism and religious discrimination; and improving mental health.

Alisha, who was elected by other youth councillors to represent Carmarthenshire, said: “It was a great experience to meet and work with young people from across the UK on issues so important to them.”

The next step for Alisha is to meet with the local MPs on January 22, which is a national Day of Action, to discuss the issues.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Executive board member for youth services Councillor Gareth Jones said: “Alisha is a strong voice in representing Carmarthenshire, ensuring that our young people have their opinions heard on matters of importance to them.”