A SPECIAL guest visited Meadowpark School to present awards and accolades to pupils during their end-of-year assembly.

Comedian Julian Clary, who is also children's author, has close ties to the primary school - he formally opened it in 2010 and his sister Bev Millin is a teacher there.

He’s attended several school events over the years but this was his first time as host of the celebratory assembly.

Julian gave out dozens of books and trophies to the youngsters, smiling for the camera and posing with each one as eager parents took pictures.

One of the awards, the Clary Prize for Poetry, was named in his honour.

The biggest award of the ceremony, Tina Pearce Cup for Special Achievement, named after the school’s founder, was given to Jorge Barros.

As an extra treat, Julian also read the first chapter of his new children’s book The Bolds go on Holiday, which the children enjoyed immensely.

He then said a few words to the crowd.

Julian said: “It’s so nice to be here.

“I’ve had quite a busy year travelling around and playing at the Palladium but to come to Cricklade Town Hall is a highlight.

“To meet these talented children and hear about all the interesting things they have got up to is wonderful.

“If you don’t win an award, don’t worry, I’ve got to the age of 58 without winning anything!”

Before leaving the stage, Julian was surprised and delighted to be presented with a big bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine by head teacher Rajvinder Kular.

He stayed to chat and take selfies with excited parents and pupils afterwards.

He said: “Coming here is always a very pleasurable experience, it’s charming.

“I love hearing the children sing and I’ve been very impressed with their singing today.”

The assembly was bookended by all the pupils coming up on stage together to perform One More Step and I Can See Clearly Now, with the school choir singing a hearty rendition of True Colours halfway through.

Rajvinder talked about all the different outdoor trips the school has organised through the year, including the Cotswolds, Avebury, a ski trip to the French alps, and going camping in the school grounds for a ‘Night Under the Stars’.

Julian joked: “I too once had a night under the stars… but we won’t go into that.”

The head teacher also presented gifts to the other teachers to show her thanks for all their hard work during the school year.

She said: “We are delighted to welcome back Mr Clary to our school.

“The children have worked so hard this year and it means a lot to them having him here to give out awards and celebrate their accomplishments.”