A FORMER Olympic athlete paid a special visit to a Sale school to give al talk about her past and present careers.


Onetime sprinter and current head of performance for the GB Paralympic heam, Paula Dunn, spoke candidly about her sport, achievements and hopes for the future to the group of students.


Paula made the visit in her capacity as an ambassador for the Diane Modahl Sports Foundation (DMSF), which aims to grant access to world class coaching to young people across Greater Manchester.


The charity recently commenced its training programme at Ashton on Mersey School, benefitting a number of pupils from Sale.


Paula gave an hour-long talk which ended in a lively question and answer session with the students.


Commenting afterwards, the former 100m European bronze and Commonwealth silver medalist, said: “I came today to inspire and excite the pupils and I am leaving feeling inspired by everyone I've met at Ashton on Mersey School.


“Through my role as ambassador for the charity, I'm privileged to meet so many talented and determined people.


“Their aspirations are incredible, some want to be the next Olympic star, others want to move on to higher education.


“Whatever the goal, we're here to empower these young people to achieve their dreams.”


Diane Modahl added: “Paula is an outstanding ambassador for the foundation. Not only does she have a true understanding of the charity and our vision, but a genuine desire to inspire, guide and advise young people to achieve success.
 

“She's a fantastic role model.”