Harrogate pupil given VIP tour of Parliament

Thomas Grattoni-May (right) and his brother, Oliver, present John Bercow MP, the Speaker of the House of Commons, with the specially-made calendar.

Ten-year-old Thomas Grattoni-May was given the personal invitation after addressing guests, including John Bercow and Shadow Chancellor and Morley & Outwood MP, Ed Balls, at the opening of the Stammering Support Centre, in Leeds.

During his visit to Parliament, Thomas - who was accompanied by his family - had a private tour of both the House of Commons and House of Lords, which was followed by a private meeting with Speaker Bercow in his apartment.

The party then watched the first Prime Minister’s Questions of 2015 from the Speaker’s private balcony, before meeting with Mr Balls in his office.

At the conclusion of each meeting, Thomas presented both MPs with a copy of a calendar he made for the occasion.

Ashville Junior School Headteacher Simon Bailey said: “We are very proud of Thomas’ achievement in delivering his speech at the opening of the Stammering Support Centre.

“Making a speech in front of an audience of strangers can be a daunting experience for many people.

“However, Thomas carried it off with great fortitude and, thanks to Mr Balls and Mr Bercow, he and his family were treated to a day that they will remember for years to come.”