STUDENTS of a college in Ripon which is part of Skipton-based Craven College fired questions at the area's MP Julian Smith ranging from Eurovision and Strictly to the best aspects of representing a Yorkshire constituency.

Evolve College provides a bespoke, full time educational programme to students from around the region and has been based in Ripon since 2001.

The Skipton and Ripon MP visited the campus following an invitation by student Rory Hall.

Rory, who has a keen interest in politics, came up with a series of questions for Mr Smith and the session was live streamed across the campus.

Students, who have recently been learning about politics and the UK Government, were also given the opportunity to put questions to Mr Smith during the live stream.

The MP was also shown around the college by Rory and head of Evolve, Bev Skaife, meeting students and staff and viewing new additional learning spaces, as well as hearing about plans for future developments.

Afterwards, Rory said: “It was really nice to meet Julian Smith and I’m very pleased that he had the time to come to Evolve.

"He answered all the questions I put to him very well. I’d like to go into politics and one day be part of the Cabinet, maybe be Home Secretary."

Ms Skaife, added: “It’s been a fantastic experience for Rory and he’s done an incredible job of arranging the visit, tour and question and answer session.

"Evolve students had been recently learning about Politics and the UK Government and it was a valuable opportunity to put questions to the minister during the live stream."

Rory plans to write again to Mr Smith who has offered to give further advice about how to get into politics to Rory and any other Evolve students who are interested in pursuing a career in the sector.

Following the visit, Mr Smith said, “I’m really pleased to have been invited by Rory to visit Evolve and find out more about what he and his fellow students are up to.

“Evolve is a fantastic establishment at the very heart of Ripon and I know that Bev and all her staff do a brilliant job providing a safe and supportive environment for students to flourish. “I’m grateful for all their hard work, ensuring that every child has the best possible start in life.”

Evolve is an alternative, post-16 educational centre in Ripon, offering a range of qualifications for those who thrive most in a small, supportive environment.