BOROUGH MP Angela Smith got her hands clean when she showed off a local hospital scheme to the rest of Parliament.

Mrs Smith brought Max4health to the House to celebrate Global Handwashing Day.

Max4health is a character created by businessman Ashley Brooks, in association with Basildon Hospital, to promote the importance of hand hygiene in preventing infections such as MRSA.

Mrs Smith said: “Ashley Brooks has created a character who makes handwashing memorable to all.

“He has been an inspiration in the fight against infections.

“I am pleased to be able to show this Basildon initiative off to fellow MPs from across the country, who came along to learn how best to wash their hands.

“The campaign will help reduce infections across the health service.”