While MPs returned to London to debate the issues in Syria, one member was snapped on their holidays on a road trip with a twist.

Folkestone students Daniel Falvey and James Johnson are touring across the Deep South during their summer away from University with none other than MP Eric Pickles.

Or rather, a life size cardboard cut-out of the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

The boys - past pupils of Harvey Grammar School - brought Mr Pickles with them “for a bit of entertainment” and started snapping him in various locations for their travel blog.

The ‘Pickles Road Trip’, as they have called it, even has its own twitter account.

Mr Pickles usually promotes localism, but the appearances on Miami beach alongside bikini-clad sunbathers and behind a cabana in Mobile, Alabama are a little different.

But it’s all in good humour for the Tory supporting students.

They said: "We felt that there was no one better to accompany us.

"As Conservatives and huge fans of Mr Pickles we hope this blog goes some way to document the great man’s adventures across the land of our great Atlantic neighbour."

And the minister has taken it in good spirits.

He said: "I'm delighted they are taking me on such a wonderful trip without spending a penny of taxpayers' money."

To keep track of Mr Pickles’ progress across the pond visit picklesroadtrip.com or via Twitter using #picklesroadtrip or @picklesroadtrip

Which politician would you most like to take on a road trip? Let us know in the comments below, write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk