A MAYOR has returned to his old secondary school to help inspire students.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen returned to Conyers School in Yarm, near Stockton, to highlight the importance of aiming high in post-18 education.

The speech was delivered during a special event as part of Oxford University’s Language Day, which gave students the chance to take part in lessons on French, German, Spanish and Italian.

Mayor Houchen said: “We have a wealth of talent in Tees Valley and each and every child, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

“Young people in this area shouldn’t hide their light under a bushel. They must be as ambitious as possible when deciding what to do and where to study for their post-18 education.”

Louise Spellman, headteacher at Conyers, said: “It was fantastic to have Ben, a former Conyers student who has achieved so much, come in and address the students.”