A meeting of minds took place when Didcot teenagers put their heads together with the people in power to discuss the issues facing young people in the town.

Members of Didcot Young Minds, previously Didcot Youth Council, brainstormed ideas with MP Ed Vaizey, leader of South Oxfordshire District Council Ann Ducker, chief executive of the council David Buckle and the town's Mayor, Bernard Cooper.

The forum was held at the Civic Hall and chaired by 17-year-old Richard Crispin and Danny Shipman. Topics included the involvement of young people in Didcot Arts Centre and the possibility of a youth shelter.

Mr Crispin said: "The meeting went well, although we didn't have the numbers we expected. I'm delighted Ed Vaizey came along and we are really happy he is supporting us."

Didcot Young Minds aim to make Didcot a better place by giving young people an alternative to hanging out on the street.

Ann Ducker, said: "Didcot Young Minds is a very good idea - we were very impressed.

"We want young people feel a part of Didcot and take the lead and drive it forward. We are trying to genuinely listen to young people to find out what they want and what will work best for them."

Mayor Bernard Cooper, said: "We had a good discussion but it was disappointing the meeting wasn't able to attract young people. I think it needs a different format."

The next meeting will be on September 5 at 4pm at the Civic Hall in Britwell Road.

For information, email dycouncil@googlemail.com or call Stuart Carter at Didcot Town Council on 01235 812637.