LEDBURY'S MP, Bill Wiggin has pledged his support for high quality Religious Education (RE) in schools.

Mr Wiggin, MP for North Herefordshire, learnt more about the work of the Religious Education Council’s patrons and young RE ambassadors at the event arranged by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Religious Education on Tuesday January 27.

Mr Wiggin said: “RE teachers across North Herefordshire are doing an excellent job in ensuring our young people grow up developing knowledge and skills that will equip them to tackle many of life’s challenges.

"I’m very pleased to pledge my support for RE in schools and help draw attention to its cause.”

Patron and comedian Sara Pascoe joined MPs at the event alongside a group of young secondary school ambassadors.

She said: “It is fascinating to work with RE students to unpick and debate some of the big issues that surround such an important subject. It is great to see teenagers stand up and address politicians about a school subject they feel passionately about.

" Educating secondary school students about empathy, compassion and tolerance is an important tool in preventing extremism and helping schools teach better RE can only nurture a more understanding view of the world.”