AN England table-tennis player is proving a smash hit with pupils at an independent school.

Barnard Castle School, in County Durham, has recruited the England Schools U16 national champion to coach players at the school and pass on his expertise.

David Meads, 16, of Gainford, near Darlington, who plays for Darlington and the England U18 team, is ranked seventh in the country.

He said: "The children play a lot and were a great deal better than I expected.

"I hope to get them to improve their game by starting with the basics."

Deputy headteacher Oliver Marlow said: "We are thrilled to have such a great player on our doorstep and delighted that he has agreed to help coach our pupils."

Table tennis is one of 70 school clubs which will be on display at the school's Five Alive! Open Day today from 9.30am to 11.30am.