A superstar choreographer has been honoured with the unveiling of a special plaque ahead of a performance of the Nutcracker involving students from his own primary school.

A plaque was unveiled at Roger Ascham School in Walthamstow to mark the achievements of Sir Matthew Bourne yesterday (March 14).

As part of the Waltham Forest London Borough of Culture 2019, Matthew Bourne's dance company New Adventures has been working on a project with all students and teachers at the Wigton Road school.

Roger Ascham Primary School, the school Sir Matthew attended as a child, will be the third whole school performance projects since the New Adventures project was launched in 2016.

Sir Matthew said: "I have great memories of this school. I’ve always been passionate about putting on shows and they obviously saw that in me and gave me the chance to pursue my passion from a young age. I’m so excited to be back here and to have this amazing tribute."

A special 45-minute version of 'The Nutcracker' will be performed today at Waltham Assembly Hall.

Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries Justine Simons said: "It is exciting to see Matthew Bourne return to his school in Walthamstow with New Adventures dancers working with all students at Roger Ascham Primary School, where they have been learning dance moves from our internationally renowned artist.

"This is exactly what the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture is all about – celebrating local heroes and inspiring the next generation of creative talent."

Leader of the council Cllr Claire Coghill said: "The joy we are seeing on the children’s faces when they are given the freedom to express themselves is what this project, and London Borough of Culture is all about.

"As well as growing up in the borough Matthew has been supportive since the London Borough of Culture bid phase, and we are very grateful to him and his talented creative team for all the work they have put into the New Adventures Residency and cannot wait to see the performance tomorrow."