CHILDREN from the Grove Primary School visited Malvern Hills District Council to find out what it does.

The youngsters were invited to the Council House, where they enjoyed a special tour and met councillors.

David Watkins, portfolio holder for housing and communities, along with Pickersleigh ward councillor Val Myatt and Claire Vaughan-Wood, community leadership and engagement officer, gave talks about citizenship and democracy.

The group then learned what it was like to vote when they took part in a mock ballot.

Dan Bayliss and Jude Allen, two of the council’s community and environmental protection officers, also spoke about environmental issues with the help of their trusty sidekick, Jimmie the Monkey.

The event was organised as part of MHDC’s engagement plan commitment to offer primary schools the chance to meet their local councillors.

Cllr Watkins said: “The day was a great opportunity for children to learn more about the council in a fun and interactive way. Teaching the younger generation about citizenship and democracy is an essential element in creating a brighter future for everyone.

“Hopefully it will inspire them to play an active role within their communities as they grow older, especially when voting in elections.”

Alison Matthews of the school said: “The children learned so much and the day has provided a springboard for us to carry on the good work within our groups.

"For example, the children are now planning to incorporate what they have learnt from the environmental officers into a special plastic waste project at the eco-club.

“It was a very positive experience and one they won’t forget."

The youngsters from Grove Primary School with David Watkins, portfolio holder for Housing and Communities, Pickersleigh ward Councillor Val Myatt, Dan Bayliss and Jude Allen, Community and Environmental Protection Officers, and Jimmie the Monkey.

Grove School Mock Ballot photo:

Grove Primary School pupils Bethany and Cody took part in a mock ballot with David Watkins, portfolio holder for Housing and Communities, and Pickersleigh ward Councillor Val Myatt.