OLYMPIC hero Sir Steve Redgrave has paid a visit to Nottingham to inspire the next generation of potential sport stars.
The five-time Olympic rowing champion spoke to schoolchildren at Into University, in Robin Hood Chase, St Ann's, an educational centre to help disadvantaged children reach university and achieve their full potential.
Sir Steve has a number of connections with Nottingham including being an honorary graduate of the University of Nottingham and having won his first world championship at the National Watersport Centre, at Holme Pierrepont.
He said: "I've worked in areas all over the city and I wanted to give something back."
In an inspirational speech to the youngsters, he told them about his experiences in the build up to the Olympic Games.
"The closer it gets the more intense it becomes," he said.
"I remember thinking 'God I'm getting to nervous I don't want to be here.'
"But then you think 'I've done all the work and done the preparation'."
He added that he had tough times in his training when everything went wrong, but he overcame the big challenges by taking them in small steps.
After a question-and-answer session with the youngsters, Sir Steve said: "The kids were very enthusiastic. The questions they asked were very insightful and they had given them a lot of thought."
Sir Steve's advice was welcomed by the schoolchildren, who came from various schools in the city to hear him speak.
"I heard how he trained to get his medals and saw what you can do when you put your mind to it," said Sabiya Tahir, 12, from the Nottingham Academy, in Sneinton.
Faizah Bashir, 11, also of Nottingham Academy, said: "It was really good, I'm going to tell my dad. He's going to be so proud. Into University's better than school, you learn a lot more here."
And Hannah Phillips, 11, of Seagrave Primary, Strelley said: "It was amazing, I liked it when we got to ask questions."
Into University has a number of centres across the country, including one at the Hope Centre, in Frinton Road, Broxtowe Estate.
They aim to provide a quiet, safe and stimulating classroom environment for children and teenagers to do their homework or get advice on their future.
Sinead Smith, team leader for Into University, said she hoped the visit would inspire the pupils to aim high.
"We're always talking to young people to tell them to strive for their goals and Sir Steven Redgrave has those qualities," she said.
