Two schools arguing either side of a debate on climate change protests have announced their teams.

This year’s Epping Forest Schools Parliamentary Debating Competition being held by Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing will see eight schools compete.

The motion to be debated this year is: "This house believes that mass protests about climate change are unnecessary and counterproductive as the danger to the planet has already been recognised”.

Roding Valley High School, speaking against the motion, will be represented by Year 12 student Florence New and Year 10 student Zak Smith will be speaking Against the motion.

West Hatch High School, speaking for the motion, will be represented by Year 11 student Dylan Panesar and Year 13 student Naomi Hollowell.

Selda Garip, who runs the debate clubs and competitions at Roding Valley, said: "After last year’s triumph at the PiXL Up For Debate competition which Zak took part in, both he and Florence want to also bring the Epping Forest Schools Parliamentary Debating Competition trophy back home to Roding Valley.

"We’re all looking forward to some healthy competition!"

West Hatch headteacher Daniel Leonard said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for our pupils to develop their confidence and ability to express themselves articulately and with passion.”

The competition will take place at Debden Park High School, Loughton, on Friday, November 15.