FEW have the chance to explore behind the famous number ten Downing Street door, but an Abbots Langley headteacher did just that after being invited to the home of the Prime Minister.

Gill Williamson, headteacher of Breakspeare School in Gallows Hill Lane, was invited by Tony Blair to visit his home, along with other headteachers from across the country on Monday.

Mr Blair gave a speech in which he thanked the teachers for all their hard work with children.

He also made reference to England's historic win in the Ashes which he said he had been following all day.

Mrs Williamson added: "Mr Blair said we could have a look around all the state rooms upstairs and down and we would be told if we were going anywhere we shouldn't.

"I was under strict instructions from my colleagues to inspect the decor and the toilets!

"You can tell it is a well worn, busy building. The state rooms are all painted and have carved ceilings. There are paintings by Turner and Gainsborough on the walls.

"It was such a pleasure to be able to see inside, I thought I was dreaming!"

Mrs Williamson had hoped to be able to speak to Mr Blair personally, as the children at Breakspeare School had asked if he could come and view their work.

She said: "I never got the chance to talk to him, but I was told if I sent in some of the children's work he would look at it and write to them. I told them all in assembly and they are very excited and planning what to send."