ALMOST 50 youngsters voiced how they think Monmouthshire County Council should spend the forthcoming budget.

Engage to Change, a forum for 11 to 25-year-olds supported by Monmouthshire's youth service, organised the event Your Future, Your Way to discuss the budget and its relevance for the county's youth. Such areas of discussion included school transport, leisure and recreation, and education.

The event was one of many engagement sessions the council has carried out in the county's main towns since before Christmas. These sessions have carried on through the authority's website and social media.

The event was welcomed by the young people with 85 per cent of participants stating that they felt they were listened to and were able to have their say. Some comments included: "It's really good to know our thoughts are valued" and "very good I would like a follow up session to see what the council has decided."

Cllr Phil Murphy, Cabinet member with responsibility for the council's finances, said: "We have spoken to communities the length and breadth of the county, but this was one of the most challenging sessions. Forget the negative things that are said about young people. The delegates at this event were interested, engaged and passionate about our county's future and the role they can play. We learnt an awful lot from them and will be taking their views forward as we face the difficult financial future."