AN UP-AND-COMING boxing star spoke to children at a Bradford school about the negative impact of bullying.

Fes Batista told enthralled pupils at Russell Hall Primary School that he was bullied when he was a youngster.

The light-welterweight fighter, who works for the WBC anti-bullying campaign, was helping promote the Queensbury school’s anti-bullying message.

It was all part of the school’s anti-bullying week activities and was the second time the boxer has visited.

Head teacher Andrea Grist said: “He was bullied as a teenager. He found ways of getting through and told how boxing helped him focus himself and gain him confidence.”

“He also told the children how bullying can destroy other children’s confidence.”

Fes also had lunch with the children on the school’s council, before leading two physical education sessions.

Mrs Grist added: “The kids absolutely loved the day. Fes has promised us a signed photo for each of the 240 children at the school and he gave us a signed boxing glove.

“And he said as soon as he gets his first belt he will be back to show us.

“We are very thankful for him coming in.”