Miss Robinson, who has gained worldwide fame as host of the BBC Television quiz show The Weakest Link, came to Norfolk to help judge the regional final of the Cranmer Awards Competition.

The contest requires high school children to read aloud to a panel of judges, schools represented being Lynn's King Edward VII, Taverham High and Norwich Independent School.

KES pupil Penny Howman (11) said: "It was quite scary reading out loud with Anne Robinson sitting right in front of you.

"But when we met her during a break she was really nice and friendly, signing autographs and posing for pictures. My dad thought she was great too!".

KES did well, coming joint second in the seniors and second and third in the juniors.

Miss Robinson told the youngsters: "You are all the strongest links! It is a huge achievement for you to be here at this contest as performing in front of an audience is very difficult."

The TV presenter also handed an engraved goblet to KES teacher Tim Steer in recognition of his support of the competition over many years.