THE General Election fired up a group of Bradford pupils so much they now plan to meet Bradford's Lord Mayor, their MP Philip Davies and even quiz their head teacher on school policy.

Children at Baildon CE Primary school formed their own political parties, organised husting debates and voted for fellow students during the run up to last week's election. But after the national votes had been counted, the pupils were still hungry to experience the world of politics.

Year fives at the school had divided up into different political groups of their own creation, drawing up their own manifestos and attempting to rally support amongst fellow pupils.

The three top performing political parties will visit Bradford City hall to meet the Lord Mayor, Councillor Joanne Dodds in July.

Teacher James Barnett said: "On top of that they are now penning letters to Shipley MP Philip Davies and we're hoping he will come to the school to talk to the children.

The pupils also plan to talk to head teacher Mary Connor about some of the ideas to improve the school they came up with as part of their "campaigns".

"It all ties in with the new National Curriculum, and we were using resources from the Parliament website," said Mr Barnett.

"It has given them a good basis of knowledge about the democratic system.

"I'm really surprised with how engaged with politics the children have become. You hear a lot about how young people aren't engaged in politics, but these are the voters of tomorrow and they are really interested."