Mayoral Meet for Langho Primary School Pupils
Pupils in years 1 to 6, from St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School Langho, enjoyed a ‘meet and greet’ in the civic suite today with Ribble Valley Mayor Mark Hindle.
Kicking off the visit by explaining the role of the mayor, Councillor Hindle then gave an overview on the role of democracy, before moving on to explain how the council works.
The pupils, all members of their School Council, then had a chance to address the mayor directly, asking him several pre-prepared questions such as ‘What are your favourite duties?’, ‘How many female Mayors have there been?’ and ‘What has been the most impactful change at the council?’.
Following refreshments, pupils then took part in a ‘live’ debate in the council chamber on responsible dog ownership, after which pupils were able to view the mace and the mayoral chains of office.
St Mary’s pupils were invited to attend the council chamber as part of an ongoing mayoral initiative, aimed at forging links with schools and the wider Ribble Valley community. Councillor Hindle aims to engage with at least 20 schools this year and is particularly keen to explain to children and young people what the council and mayoralty is about.
Ms C Boden, St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School headteacher said: “Our School Council pupils were delighted to meet the mayor this morning and have thoroughly enjoyed their visit. As a School Council, our pupils wanted to gain an insight into our local council and its organisation so that they can use this insight to make a positive impact in our own school community.”
Councillor Hindle said: “During my mayoral year I wish to use the office to connect with people. I have always had an interest in education and championing young people, so engaging with schools and their pupils is particularly important to me.
“I hope by visiting us today that the pupils from St Mary’s have gained a better understanding of the role of the mayor, what the council does, how important democracy is to all of us, and how they have the opportunity to possibly influence future council decisions.”
As well as his key objective of connecting with the Ribble Valley community, Councillor Hindle also wants to use the office of mayor to promote the role of Ribble Valley, with a particular focus on tourism, as well as supporting his charities which include Ribble Valley Food Bank, Ribble Valley Dementia Alliance, and Pendle Dogs in Need.