CONONLEY Primary School has the gift of the gab.

It was a district heat winner in a North Yorkshire schools debating contest.

About half a dozen teams from across the county went forward to the final, in the council chamber at Northallerton.

More than 30 schools were involved in the competition, which was started four years ago by the then county council chairman, Cliff Trotter.

Just six schools took part in the inaugural event.

"I launched the debate to engage more people – particularly youngsters – in the political process," said Councillor Trott.

"I think the increasing popularity of the competition shows we are doing that.

"The children get an awful lot from it and headteachers and teachers have become increasingly keen to become involved as they realise the benefit for their pupils."

The topic for debate this year was 'Do you think our climate is changing?'.

Overall winner was Rossett Acre Primary School, Harrogate.