POTENTIAL politicians from Ridgeway School, Wroughton, travelled to Swindon's civic offices as part of the Motorola Youth Parliament competition.

Seventeen students, who are involved in the youth parliament club at the school, were from several years including the school's sixth form.

They were briefed on topics including the role of the mayor, European and parliamentary elections and voting procedures.

John Carter, electoral assistant, said: "The trip is designed to raise an awareness of democracy. We must find new ways of engaging the electorate."

The students were given a guided tour of the mayor's parlour by the mayor's assistant, Nobby Clark, who explained the importance and history of the town's mace and crest.

The tour was followed by a debate about capital punishment.

Ridgeway School student Jenny Salmon, 17, said: "The trip has been very useful. I believe politics should be integrated into the school curriculum."