Double Commonwealth gold medalist sprinter, Leon Baptiste, put Leamington Primary School pupils through their paces, showing pupils and staff that keeping fit can be fun.

Retired from competing, sprinter Leon now inspires school children to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Working with Sports for Champions, he said: “I go into schools to deliver an inspirational message to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

“It also raises aspirations as a lot of children will see athletes on TV and wonder how they achieved that role.

“When I come into school and share my story, that I was once a kid just like them, hopefully that will inspire them to aim high. I want them to be the best they can be, whether that is in sport or anything else they wish.”

Leon said children took part in a fun workshop, doing a range of quick exercises.

Pupil Elsie-Mae Marshall, 6, who joined in the fun, added: “We have been doing star jumps with Leon. He is a fast runner and he has helped us to get fit.”

Oli Tatterson, PE specialist at the school, said: “It’s amazing to get such a high-profile athlete in to inspire the pupils. He’s a great role model. It has a huge impact on the aspirations of pupils, it raises the profile of sport, and the children have had a lot of fun whilst getting fit and exercising. It’s been brilliant.”

Oli said the school used the event to raise money through sponsorship for a new school minibus.

“A lot of the staff have joined in and we have raised nearly £2,000 towards a minibus and also supporting team GB athletes,” he added.“Parents and carers and members of the community have been fantastic in supporting us and we want to say a big thank you.”