FELSTED School pupils tasted success after emerging victorious in the second round of a national speaking contest. School teams from Helena Romanes, Felsted and two from Bishops Stortford High assembled at the United Reform Church, Dunmow to take part in

FELSTED School pupils tasted success after emerging victorious in the second round of a national speaking contest.

School teams from Helena Romanes, Felsted and two from Bishops Stortford High assembled at the United Reform Church, Dunmow to take part in Dunmow Rotary Club's 'Youth Speaks' competition.

Pupils had to put together a six-minute presentation on a topic of their choice and field questions from the audience before their performance is assessed by a panel of three independent judges.

Rotary president Ian Terry handed out certificates to the winners in two categories - intermediate and senior. He said: "All of the teams gave a superb show and were confident and expressive. With a good deal of amusement these young people gave a first class showing that everyone could see and enjoy."

Felsted School, represented by Benedict Gibbon, Emma Hilton and Kieran Ball, won the senior competition. Intermediate winners were Bishop's Stortford High School.

Both teams now go forward to compete in the area finals at the county council chamber in Chelmsford.