Published: Thursday, 11th June, 2009 7:00am

Sophie cheers on sports day

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Sophie Christiansen with Avenue pupils
Pic by: Chris Forsey

A TRIPLE medal winning paralympian inspired pupils at their sports day.

Sophie Christiansen, who won two golds and one silver in the dressage events in Beijing last September, presented certificates to winners.

All 81 pupils at special needs school The Avenue School in Tilehurst took part in the sports day of fun and games on Tuesday.

Headteacher Sue Bourne, who has been nominated for a Council Worker of the Year award for leadership, said: 'Sophie's visit just blew us all away.

"She gave a very inspiring speech about her experience at school and how she was supported and how determined she was to succeed.

'The children loved seeing her medals and hearing everything she had to say about her lovely horse.'

The activities were based around the school's Bollywood performing arts theme and youngsters were scored on teamwork, communication, completion of a challenge and imaginative solutions.

Sophie, who has cerebral palsy, said: "The children loved seeing my medals and hearing about my horse Lambrusco. Seeing the medals gives them something to aspire to."

To vote for Mrs Bourne visit www.reading.gov.uk text 'LGATV 7 SueB' to 80039 or fill in a form at The Avenue or the civic offices in Reading"s Dusseldorf Way.