PUPILS from four Catholic Reading Primary Schools will go head-to-head in a public speaking competition hosted at Reading's council chambers next week, writes William Cole.

Finalists from English Martyrs, St Paul’s, Christ the King, and St Joseph’s will be speaking on the subject of renewable energy and 'caring for creation' on Thursday, May 18.

Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) organised the Primary Public Speaking Final.

Education Volunteer, Linda Heneghan said: “We’re proud to support such a great event.

“For weeks now, the children have been learning about Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ letter addressed to every person on the planet, asking us all to protect the earth.

“They’ve been thinking about the important part they all have to play in protecting our common home.

“We’re all really looking forward to hearing what these finalists have to say”

The judging panel will consist a number of high profile local figures, including the Mayor of Reading, Councillor Mohammed Ayub and Tony Jones, Lead Councillor for Education The idea for the competition was sparked by CAFOD's 'Power To Be' campaign, which encourages communities to lobby the World Bank to increase investment into local, renewable energy sources.

CAFOD is asking the UK’s World Bank representative, Melanie Robinson, to ensure that more is being done to help children lift themselves out of poverty, without harming the planet.