Merton students got to see behind the scenes of Merton Council during local democracy week.

Running from October 15 to 21, the week started with a "speed networking" event with councillors from all parties quizzed by students from Merton’s Youth Parliament on issues affecting young people.

Primary school children were invited to tour the Civic Centre, council chamber and mayor’s parlour, while a number of councillors have visited schools in the borough to talk about democracy.

Councillor Maxi Martin, cabinet member for children’s services, said: "It is great to engage with our young people at this early stage about local democracy, listening and answering their questions. Their voices are important to us as they are the future of this borough."

Councillor Krystal Miller, Conservative Spokesman for Community Engagement, said: "Research suggests that only one in three young people nationally have ever met their councillor or MP.

"Local Conservatives are determined this should not be the case in Merton, which is why we are again making a big push this year to get out into schools and meet pupils and students of all ages."

For more information visit merton.gov.uk/localdemocracyweek