Catmose College and Harington School come first and second in parliamentary debate

Teenagers from Rutland experienced the role of politicians thanks to an event organised by their MP.

Alicia Kearns (Con) invited six schools from her constituency to the Houses of Parliament for the first Rutland and Melton Schools' Debating Competition.

Catmose College, Harington School and Casterton College pupils were among those taking part, in the Grand Committee Room.

Each school conducted two debates, and the highest-scoring teams went into the final. Catmose College won, with Harington School runner-up.

Topics discussed included human cloning and freedom of speech.

Alongside Mrs Kearns, judges were Edward Argar MP, former High Sheriff of Rutland Geoff Thompson, and former Catmose College pupil and current member of the House of Lords Baroness Berridge.

"It was a real pleasure to judge such lively and engaging debates," said Mrs Kearns.

"We should be so proud to have such exceptional young people in our communities."