PUPILS at Wallingford School were inspired by the visit of five-time Paralympian Ian Rose.

Judo champion Mr Rose, centre, visited the comprehensive school in St George’s Road to launch the Be The Best You Can Be programme, which aims to use Olympians to encourage pupils to follow their dreams.

Mr Rose, a Paralympic silver medallist, became a winner in his chosen sport despite suffering childhood eye cancer.

He brought some medals to the school to show pupils and gave them a presentation about his sporting experiences.

Wrenton Toth, 13, right, from Wallingford, said: “Even when things went wrong Ian never gave up and never stopped believing. Even being partially sighted hasn’t stopped him.”

Natalie Collier, 13, left, from Brightwell-cum-Sotwell, added: “Ian made a big impression on me.

“Nothing seems to stop him and he made me realise that if I want something I should go and get it.”

Assistant headteacher Fin Lewis said: “Our Students were enthralled by Ian’s dynamic presentation.

“He impressed upon them the need to take personal responsibility and to always strive for more.

“Ian’s story isn’t a straightforward one and he shared how he coped with difficult times in his sporting and personal life but battled against the odds to achieve success. Students were very appreciative he took the time to visit every tutor group in year nine.”