The MP for Rossendale and Darwen took time out of his busy schedule to visit a primary school and share his wisdom and explain his current role.

MP Andy MacNae, the newly-elected Labour MP, visited St Edward’s RC Primary School and attended an assembly with pupils and parents.

Joanna Enslin, year 6 teacher said: "It was a wonderful opportunity for the Year 6 children to meet our local MP. 

"They asked sensible questions about his role and many of the children were inspired to help others. 

"Their role as prefects is a fantastic start for our children to develop their leadership and communication skills, support members of our school community and work together as a team.  We are already so proud of them and know they will do an amazing job this year!'

He presented badges to the newly-appointed prefects and student councillors and explained his journey through life up to his appointment in parliament.

Thea Baah, aged 10, said: "I'm really glad he let us ask questions and I was really inspired that some of us might follow in his footsteps.”

St Edward's is located on Blackburn Road, Darwen, and received a good rating in its most recent Ofsted in 2020.

Kyran Goulding Ridings, aged 10, said: "I was very grateful and the MP gave up his time to come to our school and present us with our badges.”

The 59-year-old seized the constituency for Labour in this year's general election after 14 years of it being represented by Tory Jake Berry.

Trained in astrophysics, Mr MacNae was a Rossendale councillor from 2011 to 2024 holding key roles for leisure and regeneration.

Jensen Kelly, 10, said: "It was amazing to have an MP in our assembly and it has inspired me to be a role model for others.”

As a borough councillor, his activities included roles at the Bacup Townscape Heritage Initiative, which included building restorations, public space improvements, skills, business and regeneration activity.

Lavina Jerjovic, 10, and a school councillor said: "It was really interesting to have an MP visit our school. I'm glad he came to present our badges.”

Ava Vignali, 10, said: "It was really exciting to have an MP visit and I was glad he stayed and answered our questions."

Having grown up in the south of England he moved to Rossendale in 2004 and started setting up his own regeneration business with a focus on outdoor activities and sport.

Becoming a keen climber, he later worked for the British Mountaineering Council in Manchester alongside Chris Bonington and Mick Fowler, a top Himalayan climber.