With Hampshire County Council about to run its third UK Youth Parliament election, workshops for budding YMPs are being held tomorrow at Havant Civic Offices, Basingstoke Council Offices and Totton Youth Centre.

Those attending will participate in a range of activities around citizenship, democracy and decision making.

At the end of each of the three workshops, those present will have the opportunity to stand for election as members of the Youth Parliament.

Six members will be elected, two from each area, to represent the county at a national level for the next year.

MYPs regularly meet with ministers and service providers at a national level and will present young people's issues to decision makers, such as councils, within their constituencies.

Over the past year, Hampshire MYPs have met with education Ministers, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, MPs, MEP Roy Perry as well as key county councillors.

Executive councillor for education, Don Allen, said: "This a wonderful opportunity for young people interested in youth issues and keen to make a difference.

"The young people who have already been involved in the Youth Parliament have gained a great deal from their experience."

For more information, ring Lynne Meechan, youth participation worker, on 023-80255172.

Branch out for big cats Work to improve Hampshire heathland is providing a spin-off benefit for animals at Marwell Zoo, near Winchester.

Pine trees felled at Eelmoor Marsh, a Site of Special Scientific Interest near Farnborough, managed by Marwell on behalf of its owners are being put in enclosures to make life a little more interesting for residents, in particular, its big cats.

"They will be used to vary the structure in the enclosure, to provide new smells and to conceal food, which encourages foraging," said a spokesman.