AN Olympic gold medal winning diver has returned to his former school to inspire the next generation of athletes.

Jack Laugher MBE, from Littlethorpe, visited Ripon Grammar School to re-unite with the lady who taught him to swim, and with teachers and pupils who have supported him in his sporting journey.

He urged pupils to get behind Team England in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, which he is entering as one of the gold medal winning favourites.

The 23-year-old will join over 350 English athletes who will fly to the Gold Coast, Australia, to represent their country next month.

He already has gold and silver Commonwealth medals to his name from the 2014 games in Glasgow.

“It has been brilliant to return to Ripon Grammar School to catch up with so many familiar faces who have been instrumental in my development and who have provided a huge source of support throughout my diving career,” he said.

“When you compete, you are very much representing everyone who has helped you get there.”

He enjoyed the opportunity to reunite with former teachers including Sylvia Grice MBE, who set him on his way having taught him to swim as a three-year-old.

Her daughter Helen Mackenzie is the current P.E teacher at the school.

At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Laugher won Great Britain's first Olympic diving gold medal in the men's synchronised 3m springboard with team-mate Chris Mears, before winning a silver in the men's individual 3m springboard.

On his return to the city, a number 36 bus which runs from Ripon to Leeds took on his name.

Residents launched a campaign to name the new swimming pool next to Ripon Leisure Centre after the athlete.

Further calls have been made for a commemorative plaque or bench to be unveiled in recognition of his sporting achievements and contribution to the city.

Ms Grice said: “There is so much support for Jack in the area, a local lad who started here in Ripon and has gone on to become an Olympic champion.

“I’m sure the whole region will be willing him on when the Commonwealth Games start and hopefully he can add another gold medal to his collection.”

Ms Mackenzie added: “We have loved having Jack back at the school today. He has really inspired a number of our pupils to believe in themselves.”