A Jewish student from Leeds is to take a year off from his undergraduate degree to be president of Birmingham University's Guild of Students.

David Franklin's election to the union's top job represents an unusual step - sabbatical officers usually only work in roles following their graduation.

The 20-year-old campaigned rigorously for the role and will represent the university's 28,000 students. David won with more than 2,000 votes, beating his nearest rival by 225 after four rounds of voting.

The former Brodetsky Primary School pupil's campaign included pledges to set up a used books fair, easier library use, the introduction of better entertainment and alcohol-free events.

David will take up the role later this year and after completing his period in charge will return to his final year of studies for a political science and international relations degree in October 2013.