South Craven MP Julian Smith hosted his annual lunch for headteachers and selected students.

Every secondary school in his constituency was invited to nominate its head or a senior teacher, plus two pupils, to attend.

During the event – at the Red Lion, Burnsall – Mr Smith answered questions on topics such as tuition fees, high-speed rail and Scottish independence.

And Mike Davies, chief executive of Principle Healthcare, spoke about the importance of skills in the jobs market.

Mr Smith said: “This was my fourth school leaders’ lunch and it continues to be an excellent event.

“It brings together young people from schools in different parts of the constituency and gives them a chance to meet informally and discuss the issues that matter to them.

“I hope they found it interesting and useful and I thank the headteachers who took time out of their busy schedules to bring the pupils to the event.”