Teachers took on a quizmaster as one of television’s most iconic masterminds helped them Black History Month at a primary school.

Year Six pupils at Bush Hill Park Primary School, in Main Avenue, welcomed Shaun Wallace, star of ITV’s The Chase, as he told them about the importance of achieving their dreams.

Also known as ‘The Dark Destroyer’, the barrister aimed to show students that no matter who they are or where they come from, everyone is capable of accomplishing their goals.  

He said: "As a young boy growing up I was set low aspirations by some of my teachers at school, purely because I was black. But I didn't listen to any of them. Instead, I listened to family and friends who had always had my best interest at heart and believed that I could do well."

The 54-year-old described how his proudest achievement was when he became the first black man not only to enter quiz show Mastermind, but win its championship title in 2004.

Mr Wallace, whose inspirations include Martin Luther King and Muhammad Ali, said: "When I was your age I never envisaged that I would go on to win that prestigious award and that just proves that if all of you work hard, your dreams will also be realised."

As part of the day's celebrations, teachers competed against the quizmaster on a range of general knowledge questions.

Organiser and welfare officer Paula Nicholas said: "It is great that we have Shaun Wallace here speaking to the children today. At this school we feel that it is important that children are culturally aware of the significance of black history and the achievements of so many black African figures."

"This week, in conjunction with the community group, Kofhi, we have offered a range of workshops that have included giving children the chance to taste different fruits of the Caribbean and  learn about where sugar comes from."