SCHOOL pupils met with an MP to discuss their suggestions about what can be done to tackle the planet's plastic problem.

Witham MP Priti Patel visited Silver End Academy after Year 5 children wrote a letter to her and the Prime Minister Theresa May calling for more to be done to protect the environment.

She led the morning assembly with a presentation on the issues caused by plastic and says she is working with Sky's Ocean Rescue campaign to raise awareness of the problem in her constituency's schools.

Ms Patel said: "I am seeking to engage and inspire young people to take action to reduce plastic consumption and help conserve oceans and marine life for future generations.

"The pupils have shown great initiative in their own work to look at ways they too can help to reduce plastic waste and consumption.

"I have also launched a competition for the most original idea, with the winners to be announced on June 28."