Nick Clegg passes the test at John Kyrle!

12.25.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 16th Jul 2008

Nick Clegg, Sarah Carr and Paul Keetch joined Joyce Thomas OBE at John Kyrle, where students had the opportunity to find out more about Lib Dem policies

It may be exam season, but at John Kyrle high school, Ross-on-Wye, it was the students asking the questions when Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg MP paid a visit! Parliamentary campaigner Sarah Carr, Paul Keetch MP and Nick Clegg joined Sixth Formers for a question and answer session. Issues such as fuel pricing and the protection of rural communities took centre-stage as the students took their chance to put their concerns to Nick and his fellow Lib Dems.

Explaining how Lib Dem policies would work in Herefordshire, Nick was in his element. "Listening to Nick, he came over as really enthusiastic." said one of the students. "He knows what he's talking about and knows how to get across what he wants to see done for places like [Herefordshire]."

Nick, Sarah and Paul then had the opportunity to speak to teaching staff, governors and head teachers of partner primary schools. They told the Lib Dems of their hopes concerns for the future of education in the county.

Nick, Sarah and Paul went on to meet members of the business community in Hereford. Speaking later, Sarah Carr said, "What struck all of us is how closely the concerns aired by the students were mirrored by what the business owners and operators told us. Everyone is feeling the effects of high fuel prices, tax hikes, closing Post Offices and local services constantly under threat. These are things that matter, that hit rural counties like ours harder than government ministers realise."

Meeting with local party supporters later in the day, Nick spoke about the impression he had taken from the day. "It was a real pleasure to visit Herefordshire and spend time with students, businesses and people around the county. I was so impressed by the pride that everyone I met has in this beautiful part of the country. Herefordshire is a real treasure, and that's recognised across the county. I know it's what has made Paul Keetch such an effective campaigner and strong MP. It's also what motivates Sarah to stand up for this area, and give a voice to local people and their concerns. That's why she works so hard for local families, and it's what will make her a great MP."