A school council got a taste of what it’s like to be a real-life councillor during a trip to Barking Town Hall.

The 13 William Bellamy pupils met Mayor Elizabeth Kangethe and the borough’s mace bearer who talked them through the history of the town hall and told them about what their roles involve.

The children then had an opportunity to carry the hefty mace, while others enjoyed dressing up in the mayoral robes.

Pupils also had a chance to grill the leader of the council, Cllr Darren Rodwell, in the chamber rooms and find out more about what the council does.

Other highlights included sitting in the council’s high chair to knock the gavel three times - some louder than others.

When they left, Cllr Rodwell presented the group with their very own Barking and Dagenham School Council name card.

Teacher Jo Kain, who helped organise the trip, said: “The children were very pleased and proud to receive them.”