Felsted pupils get chance to snoop around Gordon Brown's residence at Number 10 Downing Street

DOWNING Street opened its doors to a group of lucky pupils as FKS Schools were invited in to Gordon Brown's residence.

During a whistle stop tour around the nation's establishments of power and government, Year Five children were treated to the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see inside Number 10.

It came as a complete surprise to pupils and teachers, who thought they were only going to see the outside of the building like the hundreds of other visitors crammed outside the gates.

FKS teacher, Robert Ward, was part of the touring party that had been guided through the Houses of Parliament by Uttlesford MP Sir Alan Haselhurst, who had helped arrange the trip.

Mr Ward said: "Just before we left parliament, Sir Alan informed us that he had been able to gain permission for the school party to walk down Downing Street. The children knew that this was where the Prime Minister lived so they were really excited at the thought of being able to have their photographs taken outside Number 10.

"The children's cameras never stopped clicking as everyone was so keen and eager to have their photograph taken outside.

"Suddenly this all stopped as the door opened and everyone went quiet. A young man came out and to our utter amazement said 'Good morning. We are expecting you. Would you like to come in?' We were all in complete disbelief."

The pupils were ushered inside and given a tour around many of the rooms in which some of the most powerful leaders have discussed important world matters.

They then went on to the national gallery for further guided tours - but it was the Downing Street experience that will live longest in the memory.

"It was almost too much to take in, and it was a very thoughtful, yet bubbly and excited group, which were finally shown out of the famous door," added Mr Ward.