SCHOOLS, colleges and youth organisations from across the county converged on Westminster to take part in Herefordshire Day 2000.

More than 200 young people gathered on the riverside terrace at the House of Commons on April 6 and impressed Government officials with displays and performances.

Hereford's Rural Media Company presented a specially-commissioned film to Film Minister Janet Anderson and members of Ewyas Harold Air Training Corps met Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon.

"I was absolutely thrilled that so many young people from Herefordshire had the chance to come to the House of Commons and showcase the amazing amount of work that they do.

"It was a memorable experience and its success is a credit to the contribution and dedication of the young people themselves," said Hereford MP Paul Keetch, who hosted the event with Leominster MP Peter Temple-Morris.

Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy was presented with a T-shirt by Hereford Young Europeans and sampled local produce prepared by pupils from Haywood High School.

The event started with a dance performance by students from John Masefield High School. Groups included the Young Farmers, the Ross Basement Youth Trust, Leominster Drugs Outreach Project and Longtown Youth Club.

Ruth Mottram, from Hereford Young Europeans, said: "It was great to present our views and opinions to the House of Commons and to share our ideas and vision for the future with MPs.