Two primary schools in Barrow have been paid a visit by a two-time Commonwealth gold medalist this week, as British Athletics looks to get kids active around the country.

Sprinter Leon Baptiste, who was on top of the podium in the 200m and 4x100m relay at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, took in St Columba’s and Dane Ghyll to take their pupils through a series of exercises.

The 34-year-old now coaches for British Athletics and is going from school to school as part of the Sport for Champions initiative that helps to raise funds for resources for schools and to support top athletes.

Baptiste took the juniors from Year 6 down to Reception through a fitness circuit before participating in an assembly where he went through what it takes to be a professional athlete before answering questions.

Baptiste was impressed with what he saw from the kids at the two schools, saying: “They’ve shown good energy and I was really lucky the Year 6 guys were able to help me at Dane Ghyll because I’m feeling a bit under the weather, so that’s helped me a lot. They’ve been very enthusiastic.

“I’ve taken them through four exercises; spotty dogs, leg drives, press-ups and star jumps. The whole emphasis is to try and promote and active and healthy lifestyle.”