A TEENAGER who had tea at 10 Downing Street with the Prime Minister's wife said last night it was the best experience of her life.

Samantha Pitchford, 14, was one of three youngsters from Darlington chosen by the town's MP, Alan Milburn, to travel to Westminster.

Along with Ashleigh Trevarrow, 13, and Joe Jackson, 11, she was given a tour of the House of Commons before taking tea with Mr Milburn, the former Health Secretary, and Cherie Blair.

The pupils were chosen for their hard work at school and were among a handful from across the country who took part in the event yesterday.

Samantha, of Hummersknott School and Language College, said: "It was absolutely great. I would say it was the best thing I have ever done.

"I was so proud because I knew I was representing my school and representing Darlington."

Ashleigh, of Branksome Comprehensive School, said: "It was really good. We got to see Big Ben really close up because we were on the roof of the House of Commons."

She said they also saw the Blairs' youngest child, Leo, at Downing Street. "He was running about, saying hello to everyone," said Ashleigh.

Joe, of Skerne Park Primary School, said the tour of the Commons and Downing Street was "brilliant".

"We got to see everything that the Prime Minister sees every day," he said.

Mr Milburn's spokeswoman said: "Alan is delighted that he was able to arrange this because it means the children were able to fly the flag for Darlington in London."

Asda, in Whinbush Way, Darlington, provided the rail tickets for the trip.