MORE than 40 pupils will be visiting East Devon District Council on Friday, November 6, as part of the national 11 Million Takeover Day (so-called as there are 11 Million children and young people in England).

MORE than 40 pupils will be visiting East Devon District Council on Friday, November 6, as part of the national 11 Million Takeover Day (so-called as there are 11 Million children and young people in England).

Schoolchildren from all around East Devon have been invited into the council to say how they would run things if they were in charge. The schools that are coming along are from Farway, Sidbury, Upottery and Whimple.

The pupils, all aged between 10 and 11 years old, will have a chance to:

* find out about food safety by taking part in a mock-up of an unsuitable kitchen.

* take part in a 'special council meeting' to debate a local issue of particular relevance to young people. The debate will involve dressing up to help the 'young Councillors' and 'interested parties' get into character.

* work with Countryside Officers to find out what they do; visit The Knapp Nature Reserve in Sidmouth and give their ideas on how to improve it.

* Work with Finance Officers to consider how the Council spends some of its money.

EDDC took part in 11 Million Takeover Day last year and ran a similar event that was very successful with everyone involved.

Councillor Iain Chubb, EDDC's Children's and Young People's Champion, said: "I am proud to support this day. It's important for young people to know they have a voice in the community and that their views count.

"I'm glad that East Devon can support this national event, which is being held to celebrate the importance of young people in society. So many times young people are blamed when their thoughts and views should be respected and valued.

"It is important for children to have a greater understanding of how local government is run, and this will help young people to get more involved and take a greater pride in their area".