One innovative young Fermanagh man dropped into Downing Street this week to pitch his ideas about transforming communities to Prime Minister Gordon Brown and members of the Cabinet.

Bebo's 'Big Think - Take Your Ideas to the Top' competition sought illuminating, practical ideas on the three Cs - climate change, crime and careers; "Whether it's working better with local police, an ingenious initiative to cut your street's carbon footprint or a suggestion to help tackle youth unemployment or bullying, we wanted to know what's in your head that could make Britain better,"

"I said how Fuel would like to expand to other towns and how we've got young people off the streets," explained Mark, who couldn't believe he got behind the famous black door;

"It was great to be at Number 10 and meet Gordon Brown. He didn't say much to us as he was in a hurry, he had to catch a flight to Boston I think, but it was nice to meet him. It's been a long weekend but I've loved every minute of it. It was great being with the other finalists too from all over England. We even got a tour of Number 10 which was really interesting. There's a lot of cool paintings!"

Mark Robinson

It may have been a fleeting meeting but Gordon Brown was suitably impressed with what he heard. "I am glad so many young people have got involved with the Bebo's 'Big Think' and are debating important issues such as crime, climate change and jobs. It was fascinating to hear how young people feel we should deal with these challenges facing their generation," he said.

The South West College Art Student says he is glad to have had a chance to share his ideas. In fact, Mark says that already things have moved up a notch. "Shortly after my presentation the Northern Ireland Government were in touch with me wanting to continue our ideas, which is brilliant," he said.

Competition panel members included drum 'n' bass star Goldie, Apprentice winner and successful businesswoman Michelle Dewberry, record-breaking young mountaineer Jake Meyer and head of policy and development at The Prince's Trust, Ginny Lunn.