CHILDREN and staff at Rodwell Pre-School welcomed local MP Richard Drax into the classroom as the school celebrated the start of the summer holidays.

Mr Drax visited the pre-school on Friday morning and staff gave him a tour of the building and of the grounds, before he sat down for a talk with children and staff at the school.

Mr Drax said: “It is part of my “motorbike MP” drive where I try and get to places I wouldn’t get to normally and really thank them for the work they do within our community.

“I have been to a number of pre-schools and their significance is huge, particularly in areas with low income because it does allow mums and dads to get out and work.

“There is a big demand in for these places, to provide somewhere safe to look after children and they do an excellent job, particularly at Rodwell.

“It’s very well equipped, they have to raise funds themselves and it really is a lovely place.

“The staff are very dedicated, most of them are parents themselves and these ladies do a fantastic job.”

Karen Stone, manager at the school, said: “It is lovely that he has come to see us today.

“It’s nice for the local MP to show an interest in the community and the work that happens on a day-to-day basis.

“He has spoken to quite a few of the parents as well as the children, and he has also spoken to the staff.

“It is nice to know that we are appreciated by the politicians and for him to thank us.”