Three schools are on their way to Westminster after reaching the final of a debating competition run by Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

Students from Bedford Modern School, Stockwood Park Academy and Sandy Secondary school impressed the judges at Bedfordshire Police headquarters this week to earn their place in the final of the countywide tournament.

The schools won their respective competitions for Bedford, Luton and Central Bedfordshire to progress through to the finals in December.

This will be held in the prestigious Grand Committee Room at the Houses of Parliament.

PCC Festus Akinbusoye said: “It is our second year of this competition.

“My focus has been on encouraging young people to find, and use their voice in discussing some of the big issues of our day.

“It is inspiring to hear their views and see the level of talent our young people have in Bedfordshire.

“I thank the schools, pupils and their families for their ongoing support of this competition.”

The topics for debate all had a link to policing.

Bedfordshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Dan Vajzovic, who was on the judging panel, said: “All the young people we heard from showed a great deal of intelligence, eloquence and understanding around some hugely complex issues facing policing.

“We are proud supporters of this competition and I’d like to say well done to all of the participants.”