School children mastered the latest digital technology to create a unique film about the regeneration of their community.

The Our Future, Our Community project involved youngsters from Crescent Primary School, in Meir, working with developer Seddon Construction, Longton High School's City Learning Centre and RENEW North Staffordshire to document the changes happening around them.

The Year 6 pupils took on the role of roving reporters to track down key figures involved in the regeneration of Meir and question them about the plans.

Interviewees featured in the 11-minute, high-definition film include Stoke-on-Trent South MP Rob Flello, RENEW programme manager Phil Brundrett and Meir Community Steering Group chairman Maggie Carter.

The pupils also went on fact-finding excursions to The Sentinel's offices in Etruria and to BBC Radio Stoke.

Speaking at a special premiere event for the film, at Meir Community Centre, Mr Flello said he was pleasantly surprised by the professional quality of the children's work and how quickly they had mastered the technology used to create and edit the film.

He said: "In the last few decades, this city has been left behind somewhat, but when I see things like this I realise that it may be possible to use digital technology to leapfrog those lost decades and catch up with the rest of the country.

"I think the children have done a fantastic job and it's clear that a lot of hard work went into this project."

Mr Brundrett, who also attended the premiere, said: "I think it is extremely important we engage with the younger generation on the work that we are doing in their community.

"It's about making the future of their area more real to them and involving them in what is happening."

Crescent Primary School headteacher David Alston said: "When I first saw the film in production I was extremely proud of what the children had achieved.

"We are able to do so much with them in school, but being able to involve professionals from other agencies in this way really complements the work we do."

He added: "Making the film has given them a whole picture of the changes happening around them and hopefully it has given them an opportunity to see how they can shape the future of their community."