A TRIO of students from St Benedict's Catholic High School have won Alcester Schools' Annual Public Speaking Competition.

The team of Kate Delaney, Mary-Clair Mellon, Maddie Rendell debated on the topic of ‘crime and punishment and the ineffectiveness of our justice system’.

The pupils analysed a recent news story that exposed the number of criminals who go on to re-offend.

Year 11 student Mary-Clair put forward the case after she was selected as representative for the school, with head of English, Rachel Hursey stating: "I chose Mary-Claire because of her intellectual curiosity, argumentative style and ability to engage."

The event was chaired by David Stanley, who has overseen scores of school debates for more than 15 years.

He said this year’s contest had produced two of the finest presentations he had ever deliberated over.

The school were up against neighbouring schools Alcester Grammar and Alcester Academy.

The debate was held at Alcester Grammar School on Thursday, February 25 with members of the Rotary Club of Alcester judging the contest.

The students will now go through to the next round at Bablake School in Coventry on Saturday, March 12.