CHASE sixth-former Eleanor Fleming, was invited to visit the Houses of Parliament by local MP Harriett Baldwin to take part in Women in Parliament, an event held to mark International Women's Day.

She said: "Having arrived outside Portcullis House at the heart of London with views of Big Ben, the London Eye and the Thames just over my shoulder, I was greeted by organisers and taken to Downing Street as part of a group of girls from across the country.

"A fascinating tour followed and I was lucky enough to be able to sit in the prime minister’s chair at the cabinet table, by far the best seat in the house.

"On leaving, myself and the other participants took what we called a ‘compulsory’ shot of the door and then made our way back to Parliament to meet our MPs.

"It was my pleasure to be able to shadow Harriett Baldwin for what turned out to be a day I will never forget. I enjoyed lunch on the terrace where I caught a glimpse of Alistair Darling, his eyebrows proving as terrifying as everyone believes.

"After this I was given an exclusive tour of the prime minister’s and the whip’s offices, but unfortunately David Cameron was not there. At 3pm, I took my place in the public gallery of the House of Commons to witness a debate on defence spending as Harriett, being a whip, had bench duty. I concluded the day by attending afternoon tea in John Bercow’s house, complete with finger sandwiches and cake.

"I am extremely grateful to have been given this opportunity and highly recommend a visit to the Houses of Parliament to anyone and everyone. It was a truly fantastic day."