A school has become mad about table tennis after two tables are donated and a paralympian visited to provide a workshop.

Kelmscott School in Walthamstow received two outdoor table tennis tables as part of the Jack Petchley Table Tennis programme, in partnership with Table Tennis England, which donates tables and equipment to schools throughout London and Essex.

Great Britain Paralympian Ashley Thompson visited the school on Friday, March 23, to deliver a workshop on the sport for which he is currently ranked ninth in the World.

Assistant head teacher and PE teacher at the Walthamstow School Mark Smith said: "These tables are a roaring success and we are pleased table tennis is proving so popular with our students.

"They consider it a safe and comfortable sport to play. All the tables are being well used and we can now offer inter school games and tournaments with our local adult education centre, the college and our local primary schools. Our wheelchair users are fans and we plan to run tailored clubs during school holidays.

"Having Ashley here has been a real bonus. He is passionate about table tennis and the students really enjoyed their session with him. You never know one day we might have our own champion to celebrate thanks to Jack Petchey and Tennis Table England."

The sport is now incorporated into the school's curriculum and the tables are in regular use during break times and after school.

The Jack Petchley Foundation has donated 1,600 tables to 350 secondary schools, colleges and youth clubs across London and Essex - with more than 5,884 students having played in competitions during the last year.

Founder Sir Jack Petchey CBE said "As a young man I loved playing table tennis. It kept me fit and active and looking back I can see how it also developed my self-discipline and confidence.

"It’s great to know so many young people take part in the sport and this programme is close to my heart."