CHILDREN in Derwentside have been setting the wheels of democracy in motion by taking part in a scheme.

Youngsters aged from five to 14 have formed their own mini local authority in a project designed to spark their interest in local politics.

Representatives from primary and secondary schools gave a presentation before North-West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong and North Durham MP Kevan Jones on the work they have been doing under the Spice project.

Under the scheme, which has run for more than a year, children met local councillors, learnt about council services and held in mock debates.

But they had a real taste of democracy with the responsibility of spending a £10,000 budget on something to benefit young people.

Ballots were held in the 27 schools to elect representatives to a committee that met in the council chambers at Derwentside District Council.

The committee decided how to spend the money, considering suggestions from their peers including building a "hang-out shelter" and sharing the cash between schools.

Votes were cast by children who followed the debate online and video links were made with children in New York and Athens, Greece.

Alan Hodgson, director of community development at Derwentside District Council said thousands of votes were cast online and settled on building a skateboard park, which will require finding more Lottery money.

Future plans for the Spice scheme involve introducing a smart card scheme, through which youngsters earn points for community work which can be spent on things such as entry to leisure centres.

MP and Government chief whip Hilary Armstrong said: "Democracy is in a bit of a crisis in terms of getting people involved, particularly young people.