TWO replica House of Commons benches made specially for an MP have had their first outing to a school.

A GROUP of Accrington apprentices from the North Lancs Training Group created green leather and wood reproductions of the Westminster furniture for Hyndburn MP Graham Jones.

He has offered to loan out them out to schools for free so their pupils can learn about democracy and Parliament.

Last week the benches had their first trip out to class at Oswaldtwistle's West End Primary School.

Mr Jones said:“It was great to see how well received the benches were.

"It sounds as if the teachers planned some brilliant lessons, making the best use of the benches and allowing all of the children to get involved.

"The school were also really impressed with the quality of the benches; the apprentices did an amazing job!"

Headteacher James McBride said: “It was brilliant to bring Westminster to West End Primary School!

"The children really enjoyed the week; we made sure that each class had a lesson using the benches and we also held a special assembly. It’s so important that we educate children about politics, to engage them and provide them with the confidence to get involved in future decisions.”