Children from across the county inspired council cabinet members with their ideas last week.

The Great Lancashire Debate saw children from primary and secondary schools across the county head to the council chamber in County Hall, Preston, to present their ideas on how life in Lancashire should change over the next 50 years.

This question was chosen as 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Lancashire County Council.

The event took place over two days, with the primary school final on Wednesday, November 20, and the secondary school final on Thursday, November 21.

The winners were announced as Chorley St Peter's CE Primary School and Balshaw's CE High School from Leyland.

The winning team from Chorley St Peter's CE Primary School was made up of Year Five pupils Lyle, Liam, Lola, Eva-Grace, and Alasdair.

Chorley St Peter's CE Primary School (Primary Winner) students and staff with the judgesChorley St Peter's CE Primary School (Primary Winner) students and staff with the judges (Image: Supplied)

Alasdair said: "I'm very proud of myself and that we won it as a team.

"It's been an amazing experience to win something so big. It's overwhelming, but I just feel proud."

The secondary school winning team was Balshaw's CE High School, which was made up of Year Nine pupils Rory, Zac, William, and Omar.

Balshaw's CE High School (Secondary Winner) students and staff with the Vice-Chairman of the Council and the judgesBalshaw's CE High School (Secondary Winner) students and staff with the Vice-Chairman of the Council and the judges (Image: Supplied)

Omar said: "It was amazing and everything went to plan.

"We were all really calm under pressure.

"Our school won last year too, so we'll be aiming for a third win next year."

The winners were presented with The Great Lancashire Debate Shield and an opportunity to visit County Hall for an educational trip to meet and share ideas with Lancashire County Council's Cabinet.