Joe Armer receives two nominations for Spirit Of Youth award

Joe Armer, a Year 11 pupil at Millthorpe School, has received two nominations in the Spirit Of Youth category, which is being generously sponsored by Nestlé Confectionery.

Joe, who is 16, was put forward for the accolade by his English teacher, Gareth Davies, and Sarah Nicholson, who works for City of York Council’s young people’s services.

Joe played a leading role in establishing York’s Youth Council and, as Millthorpe School’s representative, has been working tirelessly to set up a youth café in the city centre, where young people can meet safely to socialise.

Last June, he was elected to the UK Youth Parliament as York’s deputy member for a one-year term and he is now working on a campaign to raise awareness of the needs of young carers.

Miss Nicholson said: “Joe is a very committed young man who feels it is an honour and responsibility to represent the young people of York.

“He so much deserves an award as he puts so much of his own time and effort in to making a difference for young people in York.”

Mr Davies said Joe’s success, especially in the school’s mock election on May 6, when he led the Liberal Democrats to victory, had inspired five younger pupils in the schools to campaign for a place on the Youth Parliament next year.

He said: “Joe is a student who isn’t pursuing the limelight, but is prepared to put in the work in his own time to ensure he makes the city a better place for the young people who follow in his place.”

Only one week remains to nominate your unsung hero in our Community Pride Awards, which we are running in conjunction with City of York Council and Benenden Healthcare Society. Return the entry form, along with a supporting statement, by July 23.