A champion from the London 2012 Olympics visited a junior school last week to meet and inspire budding young athletes.

Etienne Stott, gold medallist in the canoe slalom, led an assembly at Leverton Junior School in Honey Lane, Waltham Abbey, last Tuesday (July 7).

Showing his medal and signing autographs, Mr Stott explained his Olympic success three years ago.

Describing the thoughts that went through his head at the slalom starting line in the nearby Lee Valley Canoe Centre, he explained the immense but rewarding pressure on a professional athlete.

PE teacher Ben Davey said: “It was truly inspiring to hear that an interest that started at the same age as some of the children in our school turned in an Olympic winning career. 

“A winner just a stone’s throw from the school. 

“Who knows, the next Olympic champion could be sitting in the hall.”