Gavin Henson shows England's Mathew Tait a pair of silver heels

But in fact Henson follows a long line of big names from the same Bridgend school.

Henson became an instant hero by kicking the winning penalty in the dying minutes to seal an 11-9 win over England on Saturday.

Brynteg comprehensive now hopes he will steer Wales to more great days - and become the seventh ex-pupil to be picked for the British Lions.

But Brynteg head of PE Paul Bowen said his former pupil was always a confident character.

He's going to be a fantastic role model, not just for the kids at this school but for the kids of the nation Paul Bowen, head of PE

He recalled the 16-year-old clinching a similar dramatic win with the school while on tour.

"We were in Durban in South Africa on tour playing at altitude and Gavin kicked a 50-plus metre kick to win the game in literally the last minute," said Mr Bowen.

All smiles from Paul Bowen, head of PE at Brynteg school

"He was the coolest guy then. And he certainly was on Saturday.

"He's a modest fella and a very well-liked character when he was in school.

"I think he's going to be a fantastic role model, not just for the kids at this school but for the kids of the nation."

'An unashamed metrosexual'

Mr Bowen described Brynteg as a "dynasty of talent", having already produced British Lions Dr Jack Matthews, JPR Williams, Gareth Williams, Mike Hall, Dafydd James and Rob Howley.

The boys want to play like him and the girls want to go out with him Rugby writer Carolyn Hitt

"And I think Gavin ought to be number seven," he added.

He believed Henson could live up to his promise and become a superstar.

Henson prepares for the match-winning kick against England

"He certainly seems the sort of fella who can handle that sort of media exposure."

Henson's admission that he shaves his legs may unsettle some rugby traditionalists.

But, as BBC commentator and former Wales captain Eddie Butler put it as his winning kick sailed through the posts on Saturday: "Shave away, shave away."

Rugby writer and broadcaster Carolyn Hitt said she loved Henson's style. "He's an unashamed metrosexual and I'm all for it.

"He presents a package that the media love. He combines talent and image," she said.