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F1 champion makes surprise visit to former school

Marcus BootheBristol
'Lando hasn't changed... all he's done is grow taller'

Formula One Champion Lando Norrris has made a surprise visit to his former primary school.

Norris took part in an assembly in front of everyone at Chew Stoke Church School in Bristol and spoke to the children about what motivated him and the importance of being determined when reaching for your goals.

A spokesperson for the school said his visit: "inspired our pupils to aim high, dream big and remember anything is possible."

The 26-year-old, who was born in Bristol and grew up in Glastonbury, was crowned champion in Abu Dhabi in December.

News imageChew Stoke Church School Lando Norris is standing in front of wall with drawings of his career by school children. The pictures have been stuck on by pins on to a blue board. Lando is a wearing a black reversed cap and a black jumper. Chew Stoke Church School
Lando Norris visited his former primary school in Bristol

Last year, Lando made a video message for the children, thanking the school for supporting his career.

His former reception teacher Angela Perrett said that even as a four-year-old Norris "loved racing around with all the other children".

She taught Norris at Chew Stoke Church School in 2004. Teaching assistant Sue Lewis has told the BBC Norris always liked to play with cars, and there is still a box in the class which he used a ramp.

News imageChew Stoke Church School Photo of Lando Norris arriving at the school. He was great by all the children holding black and white checkered flags. He is standing next to a school teacher with his hands in his pocket. Chew Stoke Church School
The Bristol-born racer began karting at the age of seven.
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News imageChew Stoke Church School Lando is smiling in a photo kneeling next to a little girl wearing a bike helmet. The girl is holding a mini trophy and smiling with excitement. They are both standing in the school playground.Chew Stoke Church School
Norris congratulated the winners of a scooter race at the finishing line

After answering lots of questions Norris was given a "classic" Chew Stoke mug and tea-towel as a gift from the school.

The children also had their own scooter racing competition with Norris at the finishing line congratulating the winners.

News imageChew Stoke Church School Lando is standing in front of a classroom full of children. He is giving a talk about his career. The children are facing him and wearing blue uniform and sat on red chairs. Two school teachers are standing next to him. Chew Stoke Church School
Norris spoke to the children about the importance of being determined

Chew Stoke Church School said: "We are so incredibly grateful that Lando made a special visit to Chew Stoke today. It is an experience the children and whole school community will not forget."

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