Young people took charge of the city for the day, stepping into top bosses' shoes in a national event.

More than 80 young people shadowed head teachers, council chiefs and the deputy editor of the Leicester Mercury, to mark 11 Million Takeover Day.

Yasmin Michael, of Westcotes, Leicester, was in charge of the city council for the day after taking on chief executive Sheila Lock's role.

The 15-year-old, from Fullhurst Community College, Braunstone, spent the day in meetings and finding out all about the day-to-day running of the authority.

"At first I was being introduced to people and finding it how it all works," said Yasmin.

"Then I had a meeting with a potential candidate for the new chief constable.

"I've really enjoyed it. I thought the chief executive would just sit around telling other people what to do, but there's actually quite a busy diary."

Ms Lock said: "This is my third year doing the takeover and the quality and calibre of young people who want to take part never ceases to amaze me.

"Their insight into the city and thoughts on what we do are really valuable.

"I wanted to give Yasmin a sense of what the role involves and the decisions that I get involved in."

Six young people took on roles at the Nandos restaurant in Freemen's Common.

Assistant manager Laura Totten said: "It's all gone really well and there's been a really nice atmosphere."

For Zoe Morris, who is training to be a youth worker, it was her second time taking part in the takeover.

The 21-year-old, of Leicester Forest East, said: "I've loved every minute.

"I took over from one of the bosses at the council last year so this is a different side to it, working with the public.

"It's been really good."

Organised by the Children's Commissioner for England, Sir Al Aynsley-Green, Takeover Day encourages organisations and businesses to open their doors to young people.

They can then see for themselves the processes behind the decisions that affect their daily lives.

Shareena Champaneri, 18, of Western Park, spent the day with the city council's fostering and adoption team.

The Gateway College student said: "It's been really interesting to get an insight into all the different roles.

"I'm studying for A-levels in psychology, sociology and social care, so it all links in."

Mike Evans, a senior manager with the team, said: "We've been giving a taste of all the different services and how they're managed."

Nineteen-year-old Charlotte Mansfield, of Braunstone, spent the day shadowing the Mercury's deputy editor, Richard Bettsworth.

She said: "I want to be a journalist so it's been a really good experience. I've been doing all sorts of things and I've really enjoyed it."

Youth worker Bez Killeen, who organised the event in Leicester, spent the day visiting students taking part.

She said: "It's been great, very busy.

"What makes it so worthwhile is that the young people and adults say they've learnt so much."