An outstanding debating team from Hayes School met with Bromley’s Mayor, Cllr Michael Turner, this month after winning this year’s London Debate Challenge.

He heard from the year nine pupils- Ruth Simms, Jessica Woods and Teegan Hurley- about how they beat schools from all over London.

The competition was organised by the English Speaking Union and took place at Dartmouth House, London on July 6.

It included schools from all across London’s 32 boroughs.

The debating team visited Cllr Turner at the Civic Centre on July 19 after he invited them along to discuss their success.

The Head of the school, Stephen Whittle, said: "Sue Alexander and her fellow teachers from all subjects have been putting our debating teams through their paces and all the enthusiasm has paid off.

"It has been a whole school effort but the biggest credit must go to the girls themselves who have worked incredibly hard to be the best in London."

Tim Green, Bromley Council’s English Consultant who coordinates the borough’s debate challenge said: "This is the second time that Bromley has won the London regional trophy.

"It is a pleasure to work with Bromley schools to develop a really valuable passion for all kinds of public speaking."

Picture shows: (l to r) Sue Alexander, Cllr Michael Turner, Tim Green, Stephen Whittle with (front row) trophy winners Ruth Simms, Jessica Woods and Teegan Hurley.