They were joined by the Chairman of East Sussex County Council, Councillor Bob Lacey, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant, David Allam and the Mayor of Hastings, Councillor Maureen Charlesworth.

Since 2004, East Sussex County Council's Registration Service has been holding citizenship ceremonies for successful applicants who apply for UK citizenship.

The ceremonies are held at a register office, town hall or other appropriate venue.

Councillor Bob Lacey, chairman of the County Council, said: "I was delighted to see the students from Thomas Peacocke at Hastings Town Hall - they were an absolute credit to their school.

"The ceremonies have become a well-established and popular part of the citizenship process and the young people who attended were able to see for themselves how they work."

New UK citizens must attend a citizenship ceremony within 11 weeks of receiving their invitation letter from the Home Office. Applicants are awarded UK citizenship after swearing the Oath of Allegiance to the Queen, and promising to be a loyal citizen.

For an additional fee, applicants can arrange a private ceremony to which more guests can be invited. More information about the work of the Registration Service can be found on the County Council's website at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/registration.