HUNDREDS of school children from across the district, including a group from Liphook Juniors, grabbed the reins at East Hampshire District Council when they took over Penns Place for the day.

Children were invited into the council’s Petersfield offices as part of National Takeover Day – a country-wide scheme to give young people a glimpse of local government.

Pupils toured the offices, met some of the services and took part in special activities, such as holding debates in the council chamber and taking on a recycling challenge.

District councillor Bill Mouland said: “We had two very lively mornings with 90 children from Liphook Juniors who were inquisitive and informative and had strong views on their community and what could be done to improve it.

“The quality of their debates was so good that we are pleased to say that out of all the schools which took part during the week, Liphook Junior School has won the cup for the best debate.”

“Parish councillors Jane Ives and Jeanette Kirby were a great help in the question and answer sessions and there were robust debates between the children over the merits of skateparks and swimming pools. They are a credit to the school.”

The children were presented with their cup by Mr Mouland and fellow councillor Angela Glass at the school, where headteacher Michele Frost praised their skills.

She said “I am very proud of all the children who participated in the annual EHDC event. They have been taking part in lots of debates and public speaking at the school over several months which has obviously helped them to win the cup.”

EHDC councillor Julie Butler said: “National Takeover Day is a wonderful opportunity for children to get their first look at local government. EHDC delivers more than 100 services a day to 115,000 people and has a huge impact on the lives of our residents. It plays a really important role in people’s day-to-day lives so if we can encourage an interest in local government from an early age then that really bodes well for the future.”