FICTIONAL proposals for a theme park built on green belt land were put to west Wiltshire MP Dr Andrew Murrison by students in Trowbridge to help The John of Gaunt School students practice and improve their speaking and presentational skills.

The pupils worked in groups and assumed roles as developers, local residents and environmental lobbyists who were trying to persuade a government inspector at a public inquiry to support their cause.

Dr Murrison played the role of an inspector and awarded each group marks on the basis of their presentation. The winners were the group Animalz'.

Pricscilla Bishop, the Year 9 English teacher, said: "It was a nerve-racking experience for them but I think they have gained a real understanding of what it takes to persuade an audience to your point of view."