SHE is only 14 but Abi Barber is embarking on her fourth year in politics.

Abi, who attends Watford Grammar School for Girls, was recently re-elected to the county's Youth Parliament.

"I was so happy when I found out I'd been re-elected as I really enjoy being an MYP Member of Youth Parliament," said Abi, who was previously a deputy MYP for two years.

"It's a great experience and I've gained a lot from it and increased my knowledge about how the Youth Parliament can improve services for young people."

Abi based her campaign around tackling bullying and subsidising public transport for young people, and will be highlighting these issues at eastern regional meetings.

Tom Ginger, 17, a student at Watford Grammar School for Boys, who is hoping for a career in politics, was elected deputy MYP for the Watford area.

They were among 11 young parliamentarians who took centre stage for their first photo call at County Hall, Hertford, following the election results.

Congratulating the new MYPs and deputy MYPs, Jane Pitman, lead member for children's services, said: "I am sure that being an MYP is a great experience and having the opportunity to speak up on issues that matter to young people is very rewarding.

"You can look forward to an exciting and challenging year ahead."

Aimed at 11 to 18-year-olds, the UK Youth Parliament was founded in 2000 and young people are consulted about everything from drugs and street crime to education and the environment.

Hertfordshire MYPs attend eastern region meetings and the annual national sitting for more than 350 MYPs from all over the country.