FOREIGN Secretary David Miliband visited Bury on Thursday afternoon to show support for the borough's two Labour candidates.

He met staff and pupils at a Prestwich school before enjoying a cup of tea with voters at a supporter's house near the town centre.

Joining Mr Miliband in Prestwich was Bury South MP Ivan Lewis, who is aiming to retain his seat at the May 6 General Election.

And accompanying Mr Miliband in Bury was Maryam Khan, Labour's candidate for the Bury North constituency.

The Foreign Secretary's first port of call was Parrenthorn High School in Heywood Road, Prestwich.

Headteacher Mick Fitzgerald showed him around the school, which has been benefiting from a £7.5 million refurbishment.

Ofsted inspectors rated the school outstanding in most areas when they last visited in December 2008.

After addressing students in an assembly, Mr Miliband said: “The school is a symbol of all that has improved in the education system over the last 13 years.

“It is also a symbol of the possibilities to go further if we make the right decisions.

He added: “If any MP deserves to be re-elected it is Ivan.

“He has been a fantastic champion for Bury South. He shows that people come into public service because they want to do something good for the community.”

From there, Mr Miliband visited the home of Sue Arnall, in Rochdale Old Road, Bury.

Mrs Arnall is a former Labour councillor who now does voluntary work for groups including refugees and asylum seekers from a base at the Mosses Centre in Cecil Street, Bury.

Mr Miliband spoke to Mrs Arnall, Labour Party members and neighbours about healthcare, public transport and immigration.

Afterwards, he said: “I have heard about a very strong community that wants to build on the gains that have been made – economic gains, health gains.

“I've also heard about a diverse community which is proud of welcoming people who want to make a contribution.”

Ms Khan will be contesting the Bury North seat which will be vacated by her Labour colleague David Chaytor in the wake of the MPs' expenses scandal.

When asked if he was confident Labour would retain the seat, Mr Miliband said: “I am because we've got a fantastic candidate – a new candidate.

“We've got someone who represents new thinking and a new generation in politics.

“Maryam has come into politics because of what she can contribute to the community. I think she will be an amazing MP for Bury and for Britain.”