LOCAL schoolchildren who challenged their own perceptions of refugees and asylum seekers have been rewarded for their efforts by Southampton City Council.

The council's asylum team joined forces with Southampton City College and the South of England Consortium for Asylum Seekers and Refugees to set up the competition during Refugee Week, highlighting the issues these people face.

Pupils were given an insight into the issues facing refugees and asylum seekers and read about real-life experiences of people in Southampton.

They then had to produce a piece of artwork, dramatic writing, prose or poetry about what they read.

Council health and social care boss Virginia Moore said: "It can be devastating for refugees forced to leave their homeland.

"I'm sure this competition will have helped to raise awareness and give local children an insight into the plight of refugees."

Joan Ward, regional co-ordinator for the consortium, added: "The competition has given school-aged children an opportunity to contribute to the national debate on asylum seekers and refugees."

Prizes and certificates for the best entries were presented at a ceremony at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton on Wednesday.