PUPILS at Oakworth Primary School have been to the polls.

They took part in elections to select their school council representatives.

Each class had three candidates to choose from, who donned rosettes and campaigned for a fortnight prior to the vote.

The hopefuls also held hustings to explain what they would do if elected.

"The whole thing was run as a proper democratic election – complete with voting cards, ballot boxes and polling station," said assistant head teacher, Mrs Jenni Mayo.

"The children enjoy the experience and gain a greater understanding of how democracy works.

"It also gives them the knowledge that they have had a voice and raises the status of the school council."

The council meets fortnightly and has its own budget. Members work on projects and have the opportunity to raise concerns and put forward ideas.

Once complete, when reception class councillors are elected later in the year, the body will be 18-strong.