Olympic ace Darren Campbell in talk to Ludlow youngsters

British sprinter Darren Campbell displayed his Olympic gold medal in south Shropshire during an inspiring talk to more than 160 Ludlow youngsters.

Mr Campbell was guest of honour at Ludlow School's annual awards evening and presented certificates and trophies to the school's top-achieving pupils.

Headteacher Phil Poulton said it was a memorable night for the 400 teachers, parents and pupils in the audience.

He said: "It was a privilege to have Darren Campbell as our guest speaker. He is such a genuine person and a true inspiration.

"The packed audience clamoured for his autograph and photograph, and he stayed for so long to accommodate them, some even managed a photograph wearing the gold medal."

Mr Campbell formed part of the most successful relay team in the history of British athletics, winning golds at the European Cup in 1999 and 2000, the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Mr Campbell, who received an MBE in 2006, told the audience that tenacity, self-motivation and generosity were the keys to success during his speech.

Awards were presented to children for success in all subjects and there were also certificates for pupils who have made the most progress during the past 12 months.