Britain’s leading female bobsleigh driver Nicola Minichiello launched a year-long Olympic-inspired programme of events when she visited a Baildon school.

The 33-year-old, who was world champion in 2009, signed autographs for year seven students at Titus Salt School in Higher Coach Road, yesterday at the launch of the school’s Be the Best you can Be! scheme.

The programme will incorporate lessons throughout Olympics year to help young people discover and develop skills needed for success.

PE teacher James Russell said: “The inspiration offered by high achiever who strive to realise their dreams is incredibly powerful and I can’t wait to see our students’ benefit from improved self-esteem, confidence and higher aspirations.”