Simon Danczuk defies House of Commons Speaker to enjoy a bacon butty at ShellyB's Cafe!

Shelly Buxton and Simon Danczuk outside ShellyB's Cafe on Drake Street

Voters should not be allowed to see MPs eating or drinking, John Bercow - the House of Commons Speaker - declared last week but Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk was more than happy to let voters see him enjoying a bacon butty at Shelly B's Cafe on Drake Street this morning.

Cafe owner Shelly Buxton had invited Mr Danczuk to discuss with her the issues facing town centre businesses, and Drake Street traders in particular, who have seen their businesses badly affected by years of tram works.

Mrs Buxton explained in detail her concerns to Mr Danczuk and for his part Mr Danczuk took on board what she had to say and promised to continue doing all he can to support town centre businesses and to liaise with council leader Richard Farnell to bring about the changes he agreed with Mrs Buxton need to be made if Rochdale is to once again have a thriving and bustling town centre.

Simon Danczuk enjoys his bacon butty at Shelly B's Cafe

After the meeting Mrs Buxton said: "I was very pleased Mr Danczuk took the time out to come to the cafe and meet me to discuss town centre issues. He listened to my concerns and I was impressed with him."

Mr Danczuk said: "It was really good to meet a local independent business woman who is passionate about the town centre. She has some very good ideas.

"I was pleased to hear about the group of local people Shelly is a part of meeting to formulate their views on what should happen in the town centre, that can only be a good thing and it is good that council leader Richard Farnell has agreed to meet with representatives of the group."

Mr Danczuk added: "And she does a great bacon butty!"