In a world of increasingly sophisticated technology, are libraries still relevant? This was the question successfully discussed by three WNAT schoolgirls to win first place in a prestigious public speaking competition.

Hattie, Olivia, and Penelope from West Lynn Primary were taking part in the Soroptimist International Public Speaking Event, which was held at the College of West Anglia, and saw teams of Year 6 pupils work together to deliver a speech on a particular topic.

Assistant Headteacher Dan Ryan was proud of the children’s winning performance.

“The girls had to deliver a five minute speech on the topic of: ‘In today’s modern era, with electronic devices readily available, are libraries like the new one in King’s Lynn still relevant?’” he said. “The speech was split into an introducer, main speaker, and a vote of thanks.

“Miss Leanne Swallow and myself helped the girls practise and prepare for the event, and I was there on the night to watch them, along with Ms Jo Borley, the Executive Headteacher of West Lynn.”

The competition is an annual event for the school  – although the win was a first.

Mr Ryan continued: “We have taken part for a number of years, but this is the first time we have ever won the event.

“The girls received a gold medal each, a £10 gift voucher each, and have had the school’s name engraved on a shield that has been awarded since 2008.”

He added: “Seeing the girls work so hard on their speeches over a number of weeks, and then getting up on stage in front of over 100 people, including the Mayor of King’s Lynn, is an experience they will never forget.

“The judges for the event included a local author and some dignitaries from universities. It has had a huge impact on their self-confidence and driven them to want to do more public speaking.”