YOUNGSTERS from the Dartmoor Federation of Schools left the green grass of home behind them for a recent trip to the capital, visiting the Houses of Parliament.

Fifty-six students from Boasley Cross, Bridestowe, Lydford and Exbourne Primary Schools joined students from Okehampton College to learn more about the home of British democracy.

The Conservative MP for Central Devon, Mel Stride, joined them to answer a range of questions covering topics like the privatisation of the Royal Mail, the condition of rural roads, and even Mr Stride's favourite football team.

Mr Stride is an associate governor of the Dartmoor Federation.

Mr Stride said: 'I was really delighted to welcome Okey's children to Westminster. These are bright, interested young people with great teachers behind them. It was a real pleasure to spend time with them.'

During the coming school year, the visit will be used as a springboard for a cross-phase school council project, encouraging pupils and college students to make their voices heard to the highest level of leadership among the Dartmoor Federation.

Further visits to parliament by the Dartmoor Federation schools are scheduled for January and March 2014.