THE youngest member of the Senedd has welcomed the extension of the voting age.

As of June 1, those aged 16 and 17 will be able to vote in Senedd and Council elections across Wales.

Jack Sargeant, MS for Alyn and Deeside, is the youngest ever member of the Senedd and he has welcomed the extension of voting age.

The change came into effect on Monday, June 1, following the Senedd and Elections Act, which was passed earlier this year.

The first opportunity for 16 and 17 year olds to vote will be next years Senedd elections.

This means that they will have their say on how their services are run and what Wales’s future looks like.

Mr Sargeant said he strongly believes that as many residents as possible should have their say on what a post COVID Wales looks likes.

He will be encouraging residents of all ages to get out and vote at next year’s election.

The MS told the Leader: "This is a great opportunity for 16 and 17 year olds to shape their future. I want everyone who can vote to do so, whatever party they choose to support.

"It is my challenge to convince them that I am the best person to represent our community.

"The first step to taking part in an election is to make sure you are registered to vote and you can do so online at https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

"It is my hope that 16 and 17 year olds will do so and todays change not only strengthens our democracy but our communities."