BRITAIN’S most decorated Olympian has been teaching York schoolchildren how to go for gold.

Sir Steve Redgrave, five times an Olympic gold medallist, visited York High School to give a rowing session and play dodgeball with pupils.

Working in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust, Redgrave was at the Cornlands Road centre to lend his support to a programme highlighting sport and PE activity in schools.

Redgrave said: “It was a really enjoyable morning and it’s fantastic to see the kids having so much fun playing dodgeball and rowing.

“This is such a huge summer of sport and it is vital we continue to support the teachers running PE lessons across the country in the future. Sport has a unique ability to transform young lives.”

David Ellis, head teacher at York High School, added: “It was really exciting to have Sir Steve Redgrave here to get involved in the sessions and to show his support.

“It’s really important that sport is made as appealing as possible to help encourage our pupils to become far more fit and active.”

John Steele, York Sport Trust chief executive, said: “Making PE lessons enjoyable for both teachers and students is a key part of what we’re trying to do.

“We want all young people to have a really positive experience of PE that captures their imaginations so they go on to enjoy taking part in physical activity, whatever form that might be.

“We’ve got a great opportunity in this spectacular summer of sport to ignite an excitement and enthusiasm in young people, which will encourage them to take up sport and keep active.

“A visit from an Olympic legend, who is passionate about sharing that excitement will certainly be a great opportunity for all young people taking part.”