A student from Warsop took part in the first-ever virtual Children’s Parliament.

Lahni Mellors, a year 6 pupil at Birklands Primary — which is part of the Nova Education Trust — represented the Mansfield political constituency.

A total of 650 youngsters aged seven to 11 took part in the initiative, which was the idea of the late Sir David Amess MP.

Half the children represented the government with the other half taking up the roles of the opposition.

The focus for the live debate was around sustainability and climate change, which coincided with the COP26 Summit in Glasgow.

From a young age, Lahni has had a desire to support the environment. She has carried out fundraising for the WaterAid charity and frequently arranges litter-picking in the local community.

The children discussed a wide of issues, including food wastage, the impact of of fossil fuels, the move to electric or alternative-powered vehicles, and how to improve water supplies.

Lahni said: “It was an honour to represent Mansfield. The debate was interesting and I hope it encourages other people to make a difference.

“I am really pleased to have taken part in this amazing event as it’s something I am passionate about. I have always tried to do my part by recycling and reusing.

“Where possible as a family, we buy things that are recyclable or made from recyclable materials. I arrange local litter-picking events and have fundraised for charities.

“Being part of this debate made me aware that there are many children like me interested in climate change and doing their bit to make a difference.”

Celia Smith, head of school at Birklands Primary, said: “We are immensely proud of her active participation in this event and the local events she organises to develop community awareness around ‘every little bit makes a difference’.

“Knowing Lahni’s interest in wanting to do her part to combat climate change, representing Mansfield as part of this debate gave her an opportunity to share her thoughts and beliefs.”