A TEENAGER still studying at school has become the youngest-ever mayor of a Lake District village. 

Windermere School student Hector Westmoreland Nicholson (17) has been elected as the new mayor of Troutbeck. The outgoing mayor nominates their successor, who is then in charge of the annual Mayor's Hunt. 

The Mayor's Hunt dates from 1771, and features traditional entertainment and celebrations. Many villages across the Lakes used to have their own version of this but it has declined in popularity over the years, with Troutbeck keeping it alive. 

Hector is a Year 13 student at Windermere School. He has also received the school's Long Service Award, starting in the Junior School on September 1 2008, aged two years and nine months. 

A spokesperson from the school said that they believe 'Troutbeck could not be in a safer or more dedicated pair of hands.' 

They added: "Hector has loved the outdoors from day one and would always rather be out in the fields than sitting in the classroom. 

"Hector has personal attributes and skills way beyond his years. He puts other people first and has genuine warmth for his fellow students.  

"He is an honest and authentic young man who balances hard work and kindness."