PRIME Minister Tony Blair took time out from his busy schedule to meet three of his newest constituents.

Mr Blair visited a community house in Trimdon Village to meet triplets Jay, Ellie and Ben.

The Prime Minister, who was due to entertain US President George Bush the same day, took time out to chat to proud parents Leanne Lowther and Bill Hepworth.

Grandfather Tom Lowther had written to Mr Blair when the babies were born six months ago, to ask if he would like to meet them.

Ms Lowther, 25, said she received a call from Mr Blair's agent asking if they would like to meet him at Trimdon House.

She said: "I didn't expect to meet him while George Bush was here, so I was surprised and quite shocked to be asked to go down on that day.

"We just had a little chat. He was asking how the triplets were and he was talking about his son, Leo, who has just started walking. He was very down to earth, really easy going and just like any other dad."