PUPILS from local primary schools have been putting their debating skills to the test in a friendly – but still competitive – competition.

The first ever Great Barony Blether, building on the heritage of noted local wordsmiths such as Robert Burns and James Boswell, was hosted by Auchinleck Primary School on Friday, March 10.

The event was won by the P7 team from Mauchline Primary (above left), though all those taking part, including the team from New Cumnock Primary (above right), seemed to enjoy the experience of putting arguments to the test in front of an audience.

Look out for them on a much bigger stage in the years to come!