A DELEGATION from Bahrain visited Greenwich to learn more about local government.

Members from the Bahrainian Shura Council came to Greenwich for a week to look at how our system works.

The delegation had a tour of the town hall, before meeting mayor Councillor Paul Tyler and Erith and Thamesmead MP John Austin.

They also had time for a spot of sightseeing, paying a visit to the Royal Arsenal development, Woolwich, and the Old Naval College, Greenwich.

Three years ago Bahrain held its first democratic elections for 30 years and it now has a 40-member elected parliament.

The Shura Council is an appointed chamber, similar to the House of Lords.

Mr Austin said: "I was delighted to host this visit.

"Bahrain is a good example of a country building democratic institutions following a period of authoritarian rule."