YOUNG speakers took to the podium in Witney to discuss issues including fake news and the treatment of animals.

The Rotary Club of Witney's Youth Speaks competition was held at the Congregational Church in Welch Way on Thursday, November 16.

Youngsters from Wood Green School were successful in both the intermediate and senior competitions.

The Rotary Club said the intermediate team of Alysha-Paris Godfrey, Tom Read and Harry Dunkley gave a good presentation about man’s responsibility for the humane treatment of all other species of creatures on earth.

Similarly, the senior team of Kitty Taylor, Ella Shadbolt and Abi Firmin was praised for being 'very convincing' when dealing with the subject of fake news.

Both teams will now move onto to the zone final on February 8 next year when they will be pitted against other school teams in Oxfordshire.

Every year, thousands of youngsters take part in the Rotary's youth competitions, including Rotary Youth Speaks.

The group using the competition to encourage speaking and presentation skills in young people, by having them speak on a wide range of issues.

Previous items raised for discussion include fracking and feminism.