ELECTION hopefuls discussed policy with sixth formers from a High Wycombe school - as the pupils gear up for their own mock general election.

About 50 students from Wycombe High School have formed their own parties, including political advisers and campaign managers, to mirror five of the political parties standing for election.

Students on the 'election trail' addressed fellow pupils at a debate at the Westfield Walk-based school on Tuesday, where they were joined on stage by 'real life' candidates.

Prospective Wycombe MPs – Steve Guy of the Liberal Democrats, the Conservatives' Steve Baker, Andrew Lomas from the Labour party and UKIP candidate John Wiseman – discussed party politics and a day in the life of an parliamentary candidate.

Just like their real life candidates, electioneering students will find out their fate on Thursday, May 6, when school 'voters' will make their decision at the ballot box.

Headteacher Sharon Cromie said: “Our students are future voters, indeed future leaders.

“It is essential that they are encouraged to engage in genuine political debate, are fully informed about electoral and political process and take seriously the responsibilities of active citizenship.

“There is a wonderful atmosphere in school and a real sense of purpose”.

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