CHILDREN from four local schools have visited East Dorset District Council to learn more about the responsibilities and work of the council.

School council representatives from Hillside Community First School and Emmanuel Middle School in Verwood, Oakhurst Community First School in West Moors and Lockyer’s Middle School in Corfe Mullen all took part in a morning of learning and activities in the East Dorset council chamber.

Council chairman Malcolm Birr welcomed the children before Cllr Sarah Burns gave an outline of the council’s responsibilities.

Pupils also learned about the council’s community development and community safety work, took part in a good citizenship quiz and got a taste of the voting experience by nominating their favourite part of the morning.

Cllr Birr said: “I am delighted that these young people were able to come and learn more about the work of the council. The group showed great enthusiasm and asked lots of questions.

“I hope they all enjoyed the day and that learning more about the responsibilities of the council and the work of its councillors and officers will help them with the good work they are all doing for their school councils.”