TEENAGER Hannan Sarwar is to represent Wilmslow residents as one of the UK’s youngest town councillors.

Hannan, from Styal, who was 18 in February, joined the Conservative Party a year ago, and was one of four candidates who were elected unopposed to Wilmslow Town Council for the town’s east ward.

Hannan met Prime Minister Theresa May on Thursday after being invited to a Conservative Association reception in the north west as one of the country’s youngest elected town councillors.

Hannan is studying A-levels at St Ambrose College at Hale Barns, and is undertaking an EPQ looking at mental health in the education system.

He is a Young Enterprise Greater Manchester Local Volunteer Board member, and holds regular events for local charities.

He said: “After hiding my passion for politics I decided to overcome my nerves and joined the Conservative Party just over a year ago.

“I was then approached and asked to consider standing in local elections.

“Without much expectations I applied and attended an interview. I was unanimously selected to contest in the local elections.

“I have taken this opportunity to go out and campaign, knocking on people’s doors, distributing leaflets and actively canvassing with the MP for Tatton, Esther McVey, and listening to residents’ views.

“I now have a clear vision on what I want to achieve over the next four years, working with residents and businesses to improve our town and make it a better place for everyone, as well as developing my skills as a public speaker.

“The town council is such an important organisation in the local community, and I want to make a difference.

“I was also invited to attend an evening reception on Thursday with the Prime Minister, who provided me with key advice to continue being an advocate and spokesperson for students across Manchester.

“It was absolutely unreal to meet the Prime Minister, and quite overwhelming.

“After my exams I am due to make several speeches at local schools, aiming to inspire young people to be who they are and explore their passions, and showing them that they can achieve so much at such a young age.

“I would like to thank all the St Ambrose staff and my family for encouraging me to embark on this journey.”