BARONESS Thatcher has paid a visit to Worcester's Elgar School of Music following a weekend jaunt to watch the cricket at New Road.

The former Conservative Prime Minister spent this week visiting Cynthia Crawford, her personal secretary and long-time friend, who lives in the city.

She dropped in to the Deansway school yesterday for a tour, to meet some of the young musicians and enjoy some fine performances.

"She loves Worcester," said Ms Crawford, speaking for her friend during the private visit. "She really enjoys the peace and quiet of the city.