JAMES Morris MP held talks with students and environmentalists ahead of the upcoming COP26 climate change conference.

Ahead of the UK hosting the key summit in Glasgow next week, James hosted the event in his constituency to discuss the key environmental challenges and the future of the planet.

The MP ran a competition for students to win a place at the roundtable by submitting a piece of writing setting out what they do to help the environment, what they hope COP26 will achieve and what they hope the planet will look like by 2050.

Among the issues discussed were the changes that people can adapt to in their everyday life, such as recycling and using cars less for shorter journeys.

Those at the roundtable encouraged the UK to work closely with its allies and to encourage nations like the UK to do more to help developing countries in their fight against climate change.

Students at the meeting included Ellie Batsford from Halesowen College, Naomi Oviawe David from Windsor High School & Sixth Form, Joshan Khela from Leasowes High School, Davina Rai from Earls High School and Sara Shahin from Sandwell College.

They were joined by were Hilary Bills of Friends of Hurst Green Park, David Chaffey from Friends of the Leasowes, Mick Freer of Save Halesowen’s Countryside and Mike Poulton from Friends of Rowley Hills, while Alex Read, advisor to Mayor Andy Street, attended on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority.

James said: "We had a very positive discussion on climate change, and it was very interesting to gather the opinions of those who will be keeping a close eye on developments at COP26.

"I was really impressed with the positive contributions of the students who attended, they are very engaged with the issue of climate change and were full of ideas and contributions. They are hopeful that agreement can be reached at COP26, and I hope that the world leaders and delegates will be thinking of young people when they meet next week."

Mike Poulton of Friends of Rowley Hills added: “It was really interesting to be part of James’s COP26 Roundtable, as we discussed the responsibility of the delegates and world leaders to decide how to proceed at the Summit.

"It’s vital that the leaders conserve our green spaces and natural environment, and guide us to living more sustainably and treating everyone fairly. We expect the outcome of the Summit will be clear leadership to achieve these goals, and save the planet for our children and future generations.”