Islington's youngsters take on Charlie Higson

Comedian and author Charlie Higson pitted his wits against Islington's young population this week (February 18th) in a quiz as part of the Young Consumers of the Year contest, the council has said.

The initiative was developed as part of an attempt to educate young people about their rights when purchasing goods and services, with separate sessions on making green and healthy choices, looking after their money and working as part of a team.

Mr Higson hosted a quiz in the style of popular television series University Challenge, with the event taking place at Emirates Stadium and concerning a wide range of topics covered during the extensive programme.

Central Foundation Boys' School particularly took to the event, seeing off strong competition from Highbury Grove School and St Aloysius' College and eventually winning the final.

The team will now fly the flag for Islington at the London regional final due to take place at the O2 Arena on March 19th.

Jan Hart, Islington Council's service director of public protection, said: "It's important young people know how to avoid being scammed and how to manage money, especially in these difficult times.

"The level of knowledge was very impressive and congratulations to Central Foundation. Thank also to Charlie Higson for hosting the contest."

Mr Higson was an appropriate choice for the chair of the competition, having written extensively for youngsters with his Young Bond series, including titles such as SilverFin and Blood Fever.

The comedian can also count a zombie-horror story series for children and numerous appearances on panel shows such as QI and Have I Got News For You among his many accolades and achievements.

The Young Consumers of the Year programme is just one of the many initiatives taken on by Islington Council designed to ensure that children of all ages have as much of a voice in the borough as the adults.

 

Published 21st February, 2013

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