LANCASHIRE youngsters will today take part in a conference aimed at preventing terrorism and challenging stereotypes associated with it.

More than 150 young people will join members of the Youth Parliament and Government Office for the North West for the conference in Wigan.

At the conference, youngsters from the North West can to talk about challenging the stereotypes and prejudices created as a result of terrorism and violent extremism.

It follows a survey by the UK Youth Parliament which revealed nine out of ten young people said they needed opportunities to discuss issues surrounding terrorism and preven-ting violent extremism.

Former Blackburn College student and Youth Parliament member Yasin Valli, 19, said: “It is imperative that the young people in the North West not only have a chance to talk about terrorism and violent extremism, but more importantly challenge the everyday stereotypes associated with the subject.

“This conference will enable young people to engage in a civil debate and express their views openly, with a view to wiping out any myths or misconceptions, and understanding the clear distinction between terrorism and religion.”