PARALYMPIC silver medalist Richie Barber told Verdin High School pupils about his success against the odds when he visited the school last week.

The swimmer from Salford was left with limited use of his legs after suffering with cerebral palsy.

But he told pupils how he went on to win the silver medal in the 50 metres butterfly in the Paralympics in Sydney last October.

The school's Jackie Hammond said: "Richie was absolutely fantastic and really captured the children's imagination.

"Usually the children rush off after a visitor but they all wanted to stay and talk to him.

"He gave autographs, let them wear his medal and even got mobbed on the stage!

"And there was a serious message about the importance of sport in life whether you take it to Olympic standard or not. The children really took it on board."

Richie, 19, who also swims freestyle, has won gold and silver medals in the last world championships and holds a European swimming record.

Cheshire County Council's sport and development officer Andy Brittles said: "Richie is a wonderful role model and with his help we are hoping to set up a paralympic sports show in Cheshire after Christmas."