Litter picking, growing food and eco-friendly transport were just some of the suggestions voiced by children across the diocese when they met to discuss how to improve the fate of our planet.

On Thursday January 22, around 15 primary school pupils, who are part of church school eco committees or councils, met at the Diocese of Truro’s Speak Up event at Old Cathedral School. Others also joined the day-long session online.Children with a large bookshelf behind them.

The youngsters discussed what they are doing in their eco clubs, then went on to plan and write letters to leaders in the county requesting help to improve the environment.

Letters were addressed to VIPs included in a preselected list such as their MPs, the National Environment Officer for the Church of England, the Diocese of Truro’s Environment Officer, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change on Cornwall Council.

One pupil from St Martin’s School said: “It was a really good day. I liked it. It is good because I like helping animals and the environment.”

Sarah Fox, from St Martin’s School, said: “The workshop was really educational and a place for the children to express their feelings about the environment.

“Everyone is so friendly.”

“It’s been brilliant and very engaging,” Mrs Whaley.

Children sat at desks with a large and full bookshelf in the background.Mrs Claire Whaley, St Mary Church of England School in Truro, said: “It’s been brilliant and very engaging.

“The children enjoyed it. It was nice to mix with other schools we wouldn’t normally mix with.

“Everyone is passionate.”

Sarah Stott, St Micheal’s School, said: “It was good to hear what other schools are doing.”

Clare Green, Diocese of Truro’s Schools’ Creation Care Officer, said: “What a privilege to work with such a committed and enthusiastic group of young people, I thoroughly enjoyed the day. As adults, we really need to listen to our young people – it is their future we are talking about. This project has been created to ensure they get a voice.”Children sat at desks with a large and full bookshelf and a tv screen in the background.

“What a privilege to work with such a committed and enthusiastic group of young people,” Clare Green, Diocese of Truro’s Schools’ Creation Care Officer.

The children will be working with the Hope For The Future organisation for this project.

Later in the year, the group will be invited back to the Diocese of Truro’s offices to share their experiences.