A primary school in Weymouth hosted its own mock election to give pupils an experience of voting.

Ahead of the General Election, Holy Trinity Primary set up an opportunity for the pupils to have their say in the Youth Elections organised by Our Generation, Our Vote.

More than 530 schools and youth groups from across England and Wales signed up to the political literacy project which saw under 18s build their understanding of the democratic process.

The school transformed its hall into a polling station and gave its pupils the chance to cast their votes, much like millions of people who did the same at villages halls and churches across Dorset on Thursday.

Official polling booths and ballot boxes were used to give pupils a true experience of how voting at an election in the UK is done.

READ: Tazmin Caves and Tom Clifton new members of Youth Parliament

Each class had been informed and discussed an overview of the different parties, their beliefs and key points that are relevant for the children.

They then anonymously recorded their vote choosing the party who they identified most with.

Staff were amazed by the children’s positive attitude and their acknowledgement of how significant the opportunity to vote is.

The children stated that they were very proud to take part in a democratic vote.

One pupil said: “I really enjoyed it because no one was telling me which one I could vote for. It was my choice.”

Whilst another added: “I’m very happy with my vote. I think that everyone should be able to vote.”

A third pupil said: “I really enjoyed it, and I think everyone under 18 should try it.”

READ: Debate organised for young people in Dorset

The event was organised by teacher Hannah Daykin who said: “We are passionate about instilling lifelong learning skills that will enable our children to become responsible citizens.

"They need to know that their voices are heard, valued and that their votes and decisions can and will affect our country’s future.”

Holy Trinity Primary’s votes were included in Sky Kids FYI’s Results Show.

Labour came out on top with 32 per cent of the vote, closely followed by the Green Party with 29 per cent.

The Liberal Democrats came third with 13 per cent, followed by Reform UK with 10 per cent and the Conservatives with just nine per cent.