Bassam wins students' hearts

8:35am Saturday 20th October 2007

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A LABOUR councillor has spoken of his delight after winning the hearts of sixth formers at a Greenford school.

Cllr Bassam Mahfouz (Lab, Northolt West End) was voted the pupils' favourite for the second year running after taking part in a political speed dating event at Greenford High School.

Ten councillors spent a couple of minutes with each pair of students, who then rated them on factors such as listening skills, approachability and on whether they would vote for them.

Cllr Mahfouz (Lab, Northolt West End), came out on top of the polls, followed closely by Colm Costello (Con, Hobayne).

He said: "I'm thrilled to have been chosen as the winner, and it was great to see so many young people showing an interest in politics.

"The biggest issue that came across was the feeling by young people that they were all being portrayed as yobs.

"It's great that there are events like this that promote politics amongst the younger generation and I can't wait to see what they will achieve in the political arena.

"I'd like to see the council promote this more so that we have even more schools involved next year."

The exercise was held on Monday, October 15, as part of Local Democracy Week and gave the pupils the chance to grill local councillors on their hot topics in a bid to increase interest in politics.