Prescott and Harman visit the region

The Labour Party sent two of its biggest names to the Black Country today ahead of tomorrow night's final leader's debate.

Former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Deputy Party Leader Harriet Harman were campaigning for votes in a region vital for Labour if the party wants to be returned to Downing Street.

They started their tour in Dudley, visiting the Woodside Children's Centre. They were then visiting Dudley town centre for a walkabout.

Arriving in Mr Prescott's white mini-van the senior politicians played the Rocky theme tune through loud speakers. They then chatted with parents and indulged in a spot of "messy play" in the Sandbox with two year old Mia Bradley from Holly Hall.

Speaking to parents Mr Prescott, a grandfather , acknowledged that raising children had changed significantly over the generations.

He said: "Being a dad is very different today. I remember I used to just put a kettle by the stairs for my wife but now they are much more involved and it's much more than just changing nappies."

Miss Harman who is married to Jack Dromey, the party's candidate in Erdington in Birmingham, showed her renowned feminist credentials when she met Phil Harris, husband of Dudley South candidate Rachel Harris.

She said: "A man, holding the handbag, that's what I like to see."

Her fellow cabinet members will travel to the West Midlands tomorrow, when the third and final leaders' debate will be held in Birmingham.

The location for the debate was being kept secret until 10pm tonight, but is expected to be held at a west Birmingham suburban venue.

Senior politicians will be housed in a nearby venue during the debate, from where they will give their views on the performance of the leaders.