THREE Leigh youngsters have been for tea with the Prime Minister at Number 10 Downing Street.

Alex Urmston from Golborne High School, Katie Parkinson from St Mary's and Ashley Turner from Mornington High School were taken to meet Tony and Cherie Blair by Leigh MP Andy Burnham as part of a small reception with other MPs.

The trio were also given a guided tour of the famous house.

Mr Burnham said: "It was a day that will live long in the memory of all concerned. Katie, Alex and Ashley are a credit to their families, schools and communities and I hope it will show them and others how getting involved in your local community means you can make a difference and get your voice heard right at the very top."

The youngsters were all accompanied by their fathers on the trip, and chatted with both Mr and Mrs Blair separately about a range of issues, especially about the need to improve leisure and sports facilities locally.

This was an issue which St Mary's student Katie raised with Mr Burnham shortly after the last election and one which was voted the top priority for new investment by the Leigh and Wigan Youth Parliament.

Alex and Ashley were selected by their schools because they play such an active part in the life of the school.

Fifteen year old Ashley said: "At first we thought we would only be meeting Cherie but then on the way down there I read that Tony had cancelled an engagement so he would be there too.

"We met them both separately and they were asking us about what sport we played."

He added that going to number 10 was "a bit daunting" with all its expensive decor and furnishings.

Mr Burnham said: "This won't be a one-off and I will involve other local schools when the opportunity next arises."