TOWN councillors on Lydney have discovered a new secret weapon in their endeavours to clean up the town and improve the community feelgood factor

Teams of pupils from Dean Academy in Lydney have been giving the council presentations on how to enhance the local environment and improve links with the community.

Proposals included incorporating a fun filled treasure hunt into a litter picking exercise, to encourage families, young people and older generations to spend time together whilst exploring the area.

The winning team, demonstrating a strong sense of community spirit and awareness, were Leo Loew, Carrie Horrocks-Waskett and Alfie Brown.

Carrie said that their ideas were well received adding: “The councillors liked the fact that our ideas would bring people of all ages together.”

Mrs Emily Smith, Assistant Head Teacher at the academy, said: “Our students did a great job. Councillors were keen to follow up their suggestion when the weather improves.

“We all felt that the most impressive part of the plan was their wish to spend time with the older generation of the town and it was clear that this community spirit was at the heart of their idea.”

Cllr Harry Ives, the council’s Education and Youth Liaison Officer, added: “We were all impressed at their fluency and confidence and hope they found the experience rewarding.”