PICTURE: A picture to accompany this media release can be downloaded HERE

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Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing has praised the work going on at Waltham Holy Cross Primary School after she met the new headteacher Erica Barnett.

Mrs Laing also met the school dog, Sid, when she visited the Quendon Drive school.

Dame Eleanor said: "Waltham Holy Cross is a lovely school. I know how popular it is with local parents and, having met the new headteacher and some of her staff, I can understand why. 

"It was a great pleasure to meet the children and to see the interesting and constructive work they are doing.

"I was particularly impressed by Sid, the school dog, who does a marvellous job in keeping everybody calm and focussed!"