YOUNG debaters were told they could return to school with their heads held high, after narrowly missing out on a regional prize.

Pupils at Durham Johnston School, in Durham City, were knocked out of the Debating Matters competition by Gosforth High School, in Newcastle, in the debate: there should be no limits on artistic expression.

However, the team had already reached the regional final and defeated Bradford Grammar School; and judge Claire Fox told them: "You can go back to your school with your heads held high.

"You did extremely well. The level of debate was very good and I expect great things from you in next year’s competition."

Pupil Kate Gibson said: "I was nervous but after every round of Debating Matters I’ve felt my confidence improving as you learn how to improve your arguments."

Teacher Rob Johnson said: "The plan is to encourage younger students to start debating, so we can develop our debaters’ skills over several years."

The regional final of the contest, which involves the Institute of Ideas, Pfizer and Eaga, was held at Northumbria University on Thursday, April 22.