Meet the teenage councillor thriving in her role

To her delight, 19-year-old Scarlett Myler has already tasted electoral success twice in her short political career.

Last year she was among three Independent councillors elected for Greater Manchester's Bryn with Ashton-In-Makerfield North ward - becoming the youngest member of Wigan Council.

This year only her seat was up for grabs and she scored a resounding victory.

"I was a bit nervous as I had had such a great year and I really loved being a councillor and I did not want it to end," she said.

It seems there was no need to worry, as with 1,512 votes she received more overall than the other two candidates combined.

"Last year I was just one of many candidates but this year I felt so relieved when I won," she said.

"I don't have any issue with the other parties. I just want to do the best for my residents."

Indeed, she said the only time she had considered voting against the ruling Labour group was if she thought a policy could harm her community.

Typically, her first intervention as a councillor was focussed on the concerns of local residents rather than any particular ideology.

"I was very nervous - I spoke on the problems being caused by off road bikes," she said.

"It was either my first or second meeting as a councillor."

Where did her inspiration to run for office come from?

Ms Myler said it all began during the coronavirus lockdowns when, like many others, she struggled with the restrictions placed on her life during the public health emergency.

"I was home-schooled but couldn't meet up with my regular group of home-schooled friends so I looked to see how I could help in the community," she said.

Her curiosity soon led to her getting involved in a community shop run by other independent councillors - and her journey into politics began in earnest.

"My family has always been involved in helping people locally. There is a great community spirit in Bryn - it's the best," she said.

"I really liked helping people at the shop and thought it would be great to do that on a bigger scale as a councillor.

"People have been very supportive. Nobody has had any issues with me either in the community or in the council chamber."

Away from council meetings, Ms Myler said she likes nothing better than supporting local events such as helping to organise a big clean-up where she led local children cleaning the neighbourhood.

One of five children, she said she was also planning a business venture selling arts and crafts with her sister, with more details to come.

What does the future hold? Ms Myler said she simply wants to do her bit to make a difference.

She added: "I just want to do my best for the my residents."

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