THEY may be too young to vote but that doesn't mean they haven't been struck by election fever gripping the country.

Schools across Bolton have been exploring the concept of democracy and learning more about Parliament and all its workings.

At Kearsley Academy they have been examining how they can put democracy into action in their own school through the Student Voice.

They have been considering nominating themselves for the body, and which area they would like to specialist in.

Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi came into speak to the young people.

She said: "It was a real pleasure to meet the inspirational young people who have been learning about Parliament week.

"I was very impressed with their knowledge of Parliament; there was real enthusiasm and a sense of engagement."

Ms Qureshi added: " I was particularly impressed to see so many young people who were proud of their work and deserved reward and recognition for it.

She also took part in the school's weekly "Proud Thursday" in which pupils showcase a piece of work they are most proud of .

Principal Kim McKee said: “We were very impressed with our students and their knowledge of UK Parliament and democracy – well done to everyone who took part”.

At Ladybridge High School, pupils have been exploring the work of MPs and Peers as well as making 3D models of the Houses of Parliament.

They brought politics down to a grassroots level discussing how they would like to improve their community and how to campaign.

They also looked at MPs voting record.

As a fun creative activity, pupils too part in a competition in which they submitted pieces of artwork inspired by the House of Parliament.

And the school also managed to get hold of a loan box from Parliament containing a backdrop scene of the House of Lords and House of Commons as well as speakers' robs and props.

Pupils shared their work with other secondary schools and primary schools. The idea behind the activities is to help young people feel empowered that they can make a change even at their age.