A WORLD-CUP winning rugby superstar delighted schoolchildren when he dropped in to open their new classrooms today.(SEPT 16)

Full-back Josh Lewsey, who was part of the triumphant 2003 Lions squad, visited Meadowpark School, Cricklade to officially open new building, The Copse.

A scrum of parents, teachers and children gathered on the playing field to welcome the former England international as he cut the blue ribbon to cheers and applause.

Keeping with the school’s tree theme, the new extension features Rowan and Silver Birch classrooms which year five and six classes will move into this week.

Josh, who is the former head of rugby for the Welsh Rugby Union, was also on hand to put the budding sports stars through their paces with an impromptu training session.

He said he had enjoyed meeting the next generation of town sporting talent.

“It’s been great meeting the children today and opening this amazing new building,” he said.

“It’s a natural looking building and it means the kids have a warm, clean, safe environment they can play and learn in and it’s good to see them running freely about in such beautiful land and enjoying themselves.

“Exercise is so important for children as part of their everyday lives.

“It doesn’t have to be everything but if it’s habitual it helps with their health, fitness and general well-being.

“I’m really pleased to see all the girls taking part in the rugby too.”

And Josh definitely scored a try with many proud parents who queued up to take photos with him.

Steve Ariey from Ashton Keynes attended with his son and talented tag rugby player Jack, eight.

He said the day had inspired and motivated Jack in team sports.

“It was great to meet Josh, I’ve got a lot of respect for him since I saw him playing in 2003,” said Steve.

“Jack loves playing rugby, he enjoys playing in a team and being with his friends.

“He’s really sporty as well and this will encourage him to do more.

“I definitely think he could play for England in the future.”

Headteacher Rajvinder Kular said she was delighted to welcome Josh to the school and open the new building for the school’s 66 pupils.

“It’s a real honour having Josh here today,” she said.

“The children have been so excited about meeting him.

“It’s good to have somebody of his stature on hand to give advice to the children and show them how to succeed.

“There’s been a buzz about his visit for weeks. and they are looking forward to doing some rugby training with him

“We have a real emphasis on sport here, and the children play tag rugby and really enjoy it so it’s the perfect time for Josh to visit and show them a few of his skills.

“The building was so important for us to have because as a school we are expanding all the time and this enables us to continue providing a great learning environment for the children.

“We are delighted with how it looks and we can’t wait for the children to begin their classes in there.”