PUPILS from two schools in East Lancashire have visited Northern Ireland in a bid to learn more about repercussions of conflicts.

Girls from Westholme School, Blackburn, and pupils from Nelson's Edge End High School participated in the Corrymeela project and spent several days in Northern Ireland.

They visited the Corrymeela centre, Hill of Harmony, on a cliff top on county Antrim's coast. It was set up in 1965 to offer peace to religious communities during the country's troubles to seek reconciliation.

Pupils also visited the peace wall in Belfast that divides the city and had a tour of Derry, including a walk into Bogside and a visit to the Bloody Sunday Centre and the Guild Hall.

Donna Worthington, head of RE at Westholme School, said: "During the stay at Corrymeela, the group reflected on how reconciliation can emerge from societies scarred by violence. They also explored the notion of common ground and considered ways forward."

Pupils said the experience made them feel lucky to live in the North West and helped them realise that difference can be a positive thing.

The Corrymeela project began at a conference held at Westholme School 18 months ago called Between The Lines.

Now the experience will be presented to others as a possible future model for those working in the areas of community cohesion, youth work and education.

Millennium Volunteers awards will be presented to all the young people that participated.