YOUNG people are playing an active role in developing friendships, learning and understanding between the Dartmouth ‘sister’ communities.

A delegation from Dartmouth, Massachusetts, that has been visiting the town, were special guests at Dartmouth Academy.

The visitors were keen to investigate ways in which young people can forge links between the two towns.

They enjoyed a tour of the school and meet with students of all ages, from the foundation classes to Year 11.

Nicola Perrott, director of learning at the academy, said: ‘We are so pleased to be a part of the sister city initiative.

‘It was a pleasure to show our visitors just how exciting an all-through school can be.

‘We have a number of ideas for future links and welcome the opportunity to develop these.’

Academy students are already working on an ambitious project helping to develop a virtual Mayflower as part of the 400th anniversary celebrations of the ship’s sailing to America in 2020.

The Mayflower called into Dartmouth before setting off across the Atlantic from Bayard’s Cove.