Teenagers “took over” Harrow Council as part of a national programme to teach secondary school pupils about the workings of local government.

The event was part of the national Youth Takeover day giving teenagers the chance to shadow key managers in the council to find out about the work they do.

Alfie Salmon, 13, from Hatch End High School shadowed Mayor of Harrow Councillor Ajay Maru for the day.

He said: “It was a very interesting experience and I was amazed at how big the responsibility of the mayor is. I was shown his diary, and learnt about the past mayors and how they went into power.

“I also helped with the mayor’s Christmas fair where donations went to charity. It made me think about what I want to do and maybe become a mayor in the future.”

The mayor said: “I’d like to say well done to all our young people who have completed their day’s work experience.

“This is an excellent programme to help young people get an insight into how decisions are made at the council.

“This has given them a chance to engage and participate in council projects. Alfie was brilliant and has done a fantastic job and one day he shall be mayor. I wish him all the best in the future.”