YOUNG orators from Alcester recently took part in a public speaking competition.

Five teams from three schools competed for the opportunity to move to the next district round of the International Rotary Public Speaking Competition.

Mike Gittus, master of ceremonies, said: "The standard was extremely high and the judges were hard pressed to chose a winner.

"Alcester Academy, St Benedicts and Alcester Grammar School all gave splendid performances covering a wide range of topics from the relevance of marriage to social security benefits."

He added: "Alcester Grammar School provided the best performance on the night."

Mike Brain, president of Alcester Alauna Rotary presented an award to winners Iris Kirkland, Evie Beard and Cheyenne Keogh.

Mr Gittus thanked all the competitors and the judges for making the event a huge success.