• Downing Street reception celebrates achievements of young people
• North Leam student and environmentalist, Ben Lukehurst, attends No. 10 reception at invitation of MP

Warwick and Leamington MP, James Plaskitt, took Ben Lukehurst to a Downing Street reception to celebrate the achievements of young people at the invitation of the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, and his wife Sarah on the 14th November.

Ben Lukehurst (17), an A-level student from North Leamington School was accompanied by his teacher, Liz Williams. Ben is a member of the Green Peas, an extra-curricular group of students, run by Ms Williams, which champions environmental issues. Mr Plaskitt recently met with the group after giving his climate change presentation at the school.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown asked Mr Plaskitt to select a young person from the constituency to attend the reception. Mr Plaskitt asked the Green Peas to select one of their members and Ben’s name was chosen.

During the event, Ben got to put his questions on recycling in schools to the Education Secretary, Ed Balls, chat with Communities and Local Government Secretary, Ruth Kelly, as well as meeting the Prime Minister and Mrs Brown.

Mr Plaskitt said, “The Number Ten reception was held to recognise and celebrate the achievements of young people. Ben is a great example. So many young people in our schools are campaigning energetically on important issues – and making a difference in the community.”

Mr Plaskitt added, “I am pleased Ben had the chance to put his views directly to senior ministers. They were impressed with his commitment and determination.”