YOUNG writers from the Worth Valley have put Keighley MP Kris Hopkins in the spotlight.

Pupils quizzed Mr Hopkins on his responsibilities as a Member of Parliament, how he became involved in politics and the broader topic of citizenship.

The Young Writers Club, whose members meet weekly in Haworth, have been exploring active citizenship during the past few weeks.

Mr Hopkins said it was a pleasure to meet the budding journalists during the interview session at Stanbury Village School.

He added: "I have been interviewed many times over the years and this was one of the most enjoyable, but no less challenging.

“The questions were very insightful and clearly a lot of thought had been put into the structure of the interview.

“It is vital that our schools support wider curriculum activities that not only broaden the educational experience of our pupils but also give them a real insight into prospective future careers.”

The writers group, meets every Tuesday in term time at Cobbles & Clay in Haworth's Main Street.

Initially, the club was established with secondary school-age teenagers in mind, but Stanbury Village School headteacher, Graham Swinbourne, was keen for his pupils to get involved.

The group attracts students interested in writing, journalism, photography and digital communications, and aims to give them an insight into these areas and to develop their skills.

The year six pupils have covered many different subjects, but the Kris Hopkins interview was their first foray into politics.

Club founder and magazine editor, Liz Barker, said: “It was great for the pupils to interview Kris and the exercise added to their rapidly growing experience as journalists.

“Since I set up the club, the interest and commitment from the pupils has been astounding.

“They regularly produce articles for my magazines and it is a pleasure to provide them with that platform.”

Liz said she appreciated the support from Cobbles & Clay and Mr Swinbourne.

She added: “We are always looking for new topics to cover and try to ensure that subjects are of current interest.”

Mr Swinbourne said the initiative provided Stanbury pupils with an insight into the workings of the media.

He added: “Such extra-curricular activities are vital to complement the school day, and it is wonderful of Liz to share her expertise and knowledge with these students. I would encourage more pupils from the area to get involved.”

Anyone interested in joining the club can contact Liz by e-mailing info@worthvalleymag.co.uk or calling 01535 642227.