Young people took the first steps towards their history-making election campaigns at a spectacular launch of the new Bradford and Keighley Youth Parliament.

More than 100 would-be MYPs will soon be out canvassing for support after the parliament was officially formed at the Carlisle Business Centre, in Manningham.

And the young people launched it in style by releasing 92 balloons representing all the district's ethnic community groups.

They are now receiving training about the responsibilities they would shoulder and the way ahead if they are elected on September 24. Young electors will choose six MYPs for the district's five parliamentary constituencies.

They were told at the launch that the Bradford and Keighley Youth Parliament - which will be the biggest in Britain - will be the jewel in Bradford's crown and give them a real say in the future of the district.

Council leader Councillor Margaret Eaton told the young people: "You are a tonic and lesson for me, and this parliament will not be just a show but about young people influencing the decisions which affect their lives."

She said it would be a "fantastic opportunity" but added that society had to have rules to enable decision-making and responsibilities had to be shouldered.

Coun Eaton said the young people had a valuable contribution to make towards Bradford's bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2008.

"With the enthusiasm of people like you, I am sure we are going to make it," she said.

The Council's assistant chief executive, Philip Robinson, told the candidates they were going to bring prosperity, vibrancy and harmony to the district, and the Council was impressed by their commitment and dedication.

Youth Services area manager Ketan Ghandi said young people who were not elected had not lost their chance and still had a say.

Bradford South MP Gerry Sutcliffe and Marsha Singh, MP for Bradford West, who were at the launch, said they were delighted with the response from the young people.

Mr Sutcliffe said he hoped the new MYPs would be invited to Westminster to see how they could fit into national democracy.

Mr Singh said: "The clich that young people are the future of the district is really true. At a time when turnout is falling at elections because of lack of interest, it is going to be very important for young people to learn about democracy and representation. It is excellent."