ELECTION fever came early to Budmouth Technology College to select the executive committee of its newly-formed student union.

While the rest of the country has to wait until May, the sixth-formers went to the polls in Chickerell to choose their union’s five executive members.

The elections were part of a development day at the college with students excused from normal lessons for the day.

Sixth-formers took part in educational activities about democracy, the image of politicians and a discussion of key issues such as the economy, immigration and student finances.

Those who will be old enough to vote in the General Election were also encouraged to complete electoral registration forms to make sure they do not miss out on their right to vote later this year.

In total 17 candidates put themselves forward for the union posts of president, secretary, finance officer, welfare officer and entertainments officer.

The candidates faced scrutiny from the electors in a lively and interesting ‘hustings’ session and responded to a wide range of questions.

Assistant director of the sixth form Andy Blackwood, who acted as official returning officer for the elections, said: “We had a lively and interesting day.

“The students were slightly cynical about politics to start with but have really enjoyed taking part in an election and have learned a lot in the process.

“The establishment of a new Student Union is a very exciting development for our sixth-form.

“It will give our students a stronger voice in the running of the sixth-form and enable a wider range of activities to be offered to them.”

The elections were held using the Alternative Vote system.

Under the system, voters rank candidates in order of preference rather than putting a cross next to the name of one candidate, and to win a candidate needs to secure the support of at least 50 per cent of the votes.

Alec Shackleford was voted as the first-ever president of the Student Union.

He will be supported by Serena Thompson as secretary, Simon Bolton as finance officer, Chris McQuillan as welfare officer and Geo West as entertainments officer.