Children at a primary school in East Challow have been sharing their thoughts on how to make Wantage a more inclusive community with the town's mayor.

St Nicholas CE Primary School pupils from Year 3 and 4 wrote to Angela Dunford to practice their persuasive writing skills as part of their literacy project.

Their proposals included constructing ramps at shops around Wantage for wheelchair users, installing more zebra crossings for safe road-crossing, offering more support in libraries and shops for those unable to reach high shelves, and incorporating inclusive equipment at parks for children with disabilities.

Herald Series: (L-R) Headteacher Mrs Rooke, mayor of Wantage Angela Dunford, teacher Josh Ballard and pupils Alfie, Milla, Veha and Tyler(L-R) Headteacher Mrs Rooke, mayor of Wantage Angela Dunford, teacher Josh Ballard and pupils Alfie, Milla, Veha and Tyler (Image: Vale Academy Trust)

Josh Ballard, the pupils' teacher, said: "The mayor’s visit was a significant event for our pupils, as it not only validates their efforts but also encourages them to engage actively in civic matters.

"They very much enjoyed the opportunity to share their ideas about inclusivity in person with the mayor."

Herald Series: The pupils discuss their persuasive letters with the mayorThe pupils discuss their persuasive letters with the mayor (Image: Vale Academy Trust)

Herald Series: Isabelle wearing the mayor's chain of officeIsabelle wearing the mayor's chain of office (Image: Vale Academy Trust)

Ms Dunford, who visited the school after receiving the letters, wrote to Mr Ballard, saying: "All the children had written excellent letters discussing the ideas that they had to improve for Wantage and there were some fantastic suggestions.

"Their level of interest and curiosity in their town was very good to see.

"I will be taking their points to the council and we will investigate how we can work with the local shops as well."