IT may be the seat of democracy for England's ancient capital, but the lofty surroundings of Winchester Guildhall didn't phase these schoolchildren as they stood up for their belief in recycling.

Forty local pupils were invited to debate waste reduction and local politics in the King Alfred Conference Chamber, chaired by the Mayor.

Cllr Angela Clear gave a tour to children from All Saint's, Highcliffe, Weeke and Wickham primaries before a session on the need for recycling, cutting food waste and how decisions are made at the city council.

She said: “I was impressed by the quality of the contributions made by our young ‘councillors’ and am certain that there were some budding politicians in their midst. I hope that maybe this taste of public life will encourage them to represent their communities in years to come.”

Cllr Rob Humby, who devised the idea, said: “It takes a lot to stand up in the conference chamber and speak in front of all these people, and the young people taking part in today’s debate have not only risen to the challenge but given us food for thought in the process. We have recorded all their suggestions, and will definitely be considering them as part of our wider efforts to minimise waste in the Winchester District.”

City chiefs have promised to take on the youngsters' suggestions.