STUDENTS have been promoting democracy by getting involved in Parliament Week 2017.

Pupils from schools across Whitworth took part in the annual festival that engages people from across the UK with Parliament, explores what it means to them and empowers them to get involved.

The students from Our Lady & St Anselm Primary School, St Bartholomew’s Primary School, Tonacliffe Primary School and St John with St Michael Primary School took over the Whitworth Town Council Chamber taking an active role in running their own debates on issues that mattered to them.

They also took turns quizzing local representatives including Jake Berry MP, Mayor of Whitworth, Alan Neal and local councillors Karen Ruane and Maureen Jones.

Rossendale MP, Jake Berry said: "I am delighted that local students have been able to participate in this fantastic opportunity which has enabled us all to reflect, discuss and engage with democracy in action.

"Thank you to Whitworth Town Council for hosting such a useful informative event."