Democracy came to life for a group of primary school children, as they toured the chambers of Watford Borough Council.

Ten pupils from Central Primary School, aged five to 11, visited the Town Hall today (Wednesday) after being elected as members of the school's own council.

During the hour-long visit, the youngsters asked numerous questions as they were given a behind-the-scenes tour by council vice-chairman Alan Burtenshaw and his wife and fellow councillor Ellie.

They were then invited to take a seat in the council chamber, where they were taught the meaning of the Watford coat of arms and shown the portraits of previous council chairmen and civic mayors that line the back of the room.

Each pupil was invited to try on some of the robes worn by council chairmen and freemen, while a lucky few could pose with the ceremonial mace.

Councillor Alan Burtenshaw told the group: “We have to represent lots of people and you have to represent the children at your school. Really there's not much difference between your council and our council. We both have a chance to say things and affect what goes on, but we do it for thousands of people in Watford.”

Council members at Central Primary were elected by their classmates in the second week of term, and will have the chance to consult them on major decisions taken by the school.

Previously, council members have designed the school's new adventure playground and helped to decide how to redecorate the exterior of the library.

Sandeep Atwal, headteacher at the school in Derby Road, said: “We wanted them to see that there's a real-life comparison to the school council, to see how democracy works and bring it closer to home.

“It's a very important role with lots of responsibility.”