Shopkeepers in Heckmondwike have turned to schoolchildren for help in revitalising the town centre for the next century.

The town's chamber of trade is asking sixth form pupils at Heckmondwike Grammar School how they want the centre to look.

In return the chamber will award a prize to benefit all students in the sixth form, such as a music system for the common room.

The plea is part a bid for funding the chamber is to put to Kirklees Council for a package of improvements to help regenerate the town centre.

Improvements suggested by some members include benches and Victorian railings in the market square, the relocation of pedestrian crossings and more litter bins and hanging baskets.

Traders and residents have long-complained about the shabby appearance of the town centre, empty shops, the ailing outdoor market, heavy traffic running through the heart of the centre, lack of parking and paucity of Christmas lights.

Chamber president Richard Walker said: "We want to create a cleaner, more attractive environment for shopping and help halt the decline in trade.

"We thought it would be nice to get the sixth formers to give their perspective of how they want the town centre to look, similar to the artist's impression used by planners.

"It will also give the students a chance to use the ideas for course work.

"We are also asking all 120 businesses in the town centre to come up with at least one idea.

"And we would also welcome any ideas from residents. We will be asking Bradford University to co-ordinate all the ideas to help us put together our funding package to the Council.''

Mark Tweedle, headteacher at Heckmondwike Grammar, said: "I think asking the students for their views is a smashing idea.

"I understand the chamber is particularly interested in the ideas of the art, design and technology students.''

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