Baroness helps to woo voters

Baroness Kinnock, the wife of former Labour leader Neil Kinnock, visited Ollerton’s Dukeries College and Complex to meet pupils on Tuesday.

Baroness Kinnock, a former MEP, was accompanied by the Labour candidate for Sherwood, Miss Emilie Oldknow.

Baroness Kinnock met the principal, Mr Danny Smith, before touring the building and talking to pupils who visited Parliament to debate with other schools last month.

Two parties were set up by pupils aged 14 and 15 — and they picked up first and second prize in the competition.

It is the second time Baroness Kinnock has visited the school — she supported outgoing Sherwood MP Mr Paddy Tipping, who is stepping down for health reasons, during his first campaign in 1992.

“I remember coming here and being very impressed,” she said.

“It’s a one-stop shop — you’ve got children of all ages and adult learners. Every aspect of education and support is available here. It is unusual. It was innovative when it was established.”

Baroness Kinnock said one of the highlights of her visit was an impromptu conversation with pupils in the library about climate change.

She said: “They were confident and very pleasant.”

Baroness Kinnock was shocked to learn about the cuts to the complex’s community and after-school budget by Nottinghamshire County Council.

Miss Oldknow said: “I have spoken to the principal and the chairman of the governors about the £400,000 cuts the complex is facing and we are keen to talk with them further about how we can better support them.

“The Dukeries complex is so unique across the constituency. We should be expanding it, not cutting it.”

Baroness Kinnock also joined Miss Oldknow in door knocking in Ollerton.

The Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, Mr Ed Balls, visited Sherwood on Friday to help Miss Oldknow with her campaign.

Mr Balls discussed the building of new schools and Sure Start facilities.

Mr Balls said: “I know Emilie recognises the importance of good schools and nurseries.

“There are excellent facilities in North Nottinghamshire. Investment in young people is investment in all our futures.

“It’s a pity, the Conservatives are putting it at risk by their plans to reduce Sure Start and charge more for nursery places.”

Miss Oldknow said: “Ed has visited the Dukeries complex in Ollerton recently and knows what a good school it is. Now he’s heard directly about the good primary facilities.

“I want to ensure that Labour continues to invest in our schools and services.”