A SENIOR shadow minister is visiting schools, colleges and businesses on a two-day visit to south Essex.

Liam Byrne, Shadow Minister for Universities, Science and Skills, visited Procat College, Pitsea McDonald’s and other businesses and residents in Basildon today.

The senior Labour MP plans to visit Seevic College, the Deanes School and the Castle Point Gas and Heating Company, in Thundersley, South Essex College’s Canvey Skills Campus and South Essex College in Southend tomorrow.

Mike Le-Surf, Labour parliamentary candidate for South Basildon and East Thurrock, said: "I am delighted that Liam had the opportunity to visit Procat and see the superb technical vocational opportunities on offer.

“I left school at 16 and went into a catering apprenticeship so understand fully how important a vocational education is.

“Spending time speaking with our younger citizens is important and I'm glad to have been part of Liam's A13 tour."

Mr Byrne embarked on the “road trip” to talk to young people about optimism, aspirations and jobs of the future.

The former businessman and Chief Secretary to the Treasury said it was also a homage to Left-wing singer Billy Bragg’s song “A13 Trunk Road to the Sea”.