Budding politicians could win the chance to go behind the scenes at Parliament.

A competition has been launched for young students aged between 16 and 18 to shadow Maidstone and the Weald MP Helen Grant.

The winner will see Helen in action in the constituency and at the Houses of Parliament throughout the year.

Applicants must be between 16 and 18 and live within Maidstone and the Weald boundaries, and will be selected in an election-style process.

To apply visit www.helengrant.org or write to Shadow Helen 2011, Freepost MA827, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5BR. The closing date is October 31, 2011.