THE starting gun to keep Britain in Europe was fired today at a South Lakeland school - with just ten weeks to go until polling day.

The Stronger In Battle Bus joined South Lakes MP Tim Farron at Dallam School in Milnthorpe to help launch their campaign ahead of the referendum on June 23.

Mr Farron spoke to Sixth Form students about the upcoming referendum, and heard from first-time voters about why it is so important to them.

Sam Barfoot, 18, said: "As an enthusiastic student who has been eager to interact with politics in the past year, the EU referendum offers those of my generation the first chance to contribute to such an important decision.

"I believe that this generation of first-time voters have a vital responsibility in affecting the outcome of the referendum, representing a substantial and pivotal portion of the ‘in’ electorate.

"Voting to stay in will undoubtedly offer a more stable future, as continued membership will ensure a sustainable economic grounding for years to come – something that is essential for the security of the nation."

Ben Thedham, also 18, said: "The EU is great in allowing me free and easy movement between and around countries in mainland Europe. As someone who wants to study abroad in the future, I think that severing this connection would be a foolish decision."

Richard Doyle, head of sixth form at Dallam School, said: “Young people are genuinely interested in the debate over Europe and it is important that first time voters are given the opportunity to explore issues. The arrival of the bus this morning gave Dallam School Year 13 students the chance to ask questions and make up their own minds about issues which affect their future.”

Mr Farron added: “The EU Referendum will be the most important vote in a generation. It’s great to see that the students at Dallam School are so interested in this issue, which will have a huge impact on their futures.

"I have always been very clear that it is firmly in Britain’s best interests to remain in the EU, and will continue to campaign here in South Lakeland and across the country for a ‘remain’ vote.”