Paralympian Sean Rose and ex-footballer Ian Miller visit Downham Market Preparatory School

School youngsters were paid an inspiring visit by a well-known sporting duo – and tried their hand at a tough workout.

At the end of February, Downham Preparatory School was visited by Paralympian skier Sean Rose and ex-professional footballer Ian Miller.

The pair travel to different areas as part of the ‘Sports for Schools’ initiative, promoting fitness and advocating a message that people can achieve anything if they put their minds to it.

Sean is a double winter Paralympian, and is a skiing and water skiing champion.

A freak ski accident in 2000 broke his back and left him paralysed from the waist down. In 2013, Sean retired from competitive skiing as Britain’s most successful alpine ski racer ever and now serves as a motivational speaker.

Meanwhile, Miller’s footballing career saw him turn out for the likes of Bury Town and Ipswich Town.

During their visit to the Downham school, pupils completed lots of fun fitness circuits organised by the professionals, involving push ups, spotty dogs, wall sits and many more exercises.

Elizabeth Laffeaty-Sharpe, principal at the school, said: “The children all absolutely loved this and worked extremely hard. They enjoyed watching their friends take part and cheered them on throughout.”

Both Sean and Ian complimented the school and noted how well behaved the children were – as well as how hard they tried.

After the fitness session, the children had an assembly with Sean. He explained his life before and after his injury, and inspired the children to always try their best at everything they do.

The session ended with a Q&A session, where pupils asked several well-thought-out questions.

The youngsters were all sponsored by their family and friends, and 60% of all funds raised were then given back to the school in the form of a voucher to be spent on sports equipment.

“I am very pleased to say that thanks to their generosity, we have £525 to spend,” Ms Laffeaty-Sharpe added.

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