PUPILS were inspired by a visit by two sporting heroes.

Commonwealth Games gold medal winner Julian Golley and professional mountain biker Grant Fielder spent the day at Holy Trinity Primary School in Weymouth.

The event also raised money for PE equipment at the school.

The athletes’ visit came about thanks to SuperSchools, an organisation which promotes healthy lifestyles and boost children’s aspirations – as well as allowing youngsters to rub shoulders with their sporting heroes.

PE teacher at the school Kim Jones, who worked with SuperSchools to organise the event, said it was a fantastic day and that the pupils were left ‘awestruck’ by Mr Fielder’s gravity-defying demonstrations.

She said: “Julian came along a few weeks ago to give an assembly to the children and launch the idea that they are going to take part in a sponsored fitness event. Then he and Grant came along on Thursday once the children had had time to collect their sponsorship money.”

The money raised is split between SuperSchools and Holy Trinity, which Mrs Jones said will go towards PE equipment to be used in lessons and after-school clubs.

“The event is all about engaging children in sport and raising the profile of PE, and hopefully inspiring the children to try new things and stay fit and healthy. They all loved it, there wasn’t one person who didn’t join in. They were just in awe, getting to watch these athletes and get their autographs.”

Mr Fielder has been a professional freeride mountain biker since the age of 19. He was ranked number one in the UK from 2002 to 2005 and became the world number one in the sport in 2004. He’s also a member of the FMB World Tour advisory board, which launched in 2010.

Triple jumper Mr Golley won the gold medal at the 1994 Commonwealth Games and has also competed in the Olympics and the World Athletics Championships.

Mrs Jones said it’s the first time the school has had a visit from athletes in several years – but it was so successful she’s keen to hold similar events in the future.

“The kids were just so amazed and inspired by it all. The whole school, from reception right up to Year Six, got involved. It was fantastic.”