Blair ignores questions on Sheffield visit

Mr Blair plays lead guitar in a school jam session

Prime Minister Tony Blair ignored questions about heightened national security as he arrived in Sheffield for a long-standing engagement with Home Secretary David Blunkett.

Mr Blair's car swept past a handful of banner-waving protesters as it entered Firth Park Community College, in Mr Blunkett's Sheffield Brightside constituency.

The Prime Minister was greeted by the head teacher and pupils and shook hands with them in the freezing temperatures.

I am also pleased he has fulfilled his promise to come to the Brightside area

David Blunkett MP

Neither Mr Blair nor Mr Blunkett responded as reporters put a series of questions to them as they entered the building.

Mr Blunkett earlier said it was the first time in living memory a serving Prime Minister had visited the North East of Sheffield.

"He is very welcome indeed," said Mr Blunkett.

"I am personally very pleased that the Prime Minister is here to celebrate the improvements and changes that have been brought about here in the city."

Steady beat

Mr Blair cancelled a planned visit two years ago to take personal charge of the fuel crisis.

Later, the politicians became the performers on a tour of the school's music room, joining an impromptu jamming session with the school band The Jabberwocker.

After listening to a 12 bar blues piece, Mr Blair and Mr Blunkett tried their hand at the same piece.

Mr Blair was on lead guitar while his Home Secretary kept a steady beat on the drums.