YOUNGSTERS heard about the importance of democracy from Clacton MP Giles Watling as part of a school council project.

Mr Watling visited Engaines Primary School, in St Osyth Road, Little Clacton.

After being given a tour of the school he spoke to pupils about his role in the House of Commons.

“I was given a tour and talked to them about how I went from being an actor to Parliament,” said Mr Watling.

“The pupils have set up a school council and vote for each other, so I talked to them about democracy and how important it is that people vote.”

Headteacher Jackie Irwin said: “The children were excited to meet him and Mr Watling showed great interest in the work the children were doing.

“He talked with the children about how important it was to vote and this really helped the children to understand the democratic process.

“We have a school council where the children vote for who they would like to represent them.

“We also have a learning council who have really helped embed good teaching and learning.”

Mr Watling, who starred in 1980s sitcom Bread and in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, has promised to return to the school to talk to the children about acting.