Children were awestruck when a world class boxer told tales of life in the ring at their school.

British middleweight boxer Herol ‘Bomber’ Graham dropped into this morning’s assembly at St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School in Brook Road in Borehamwood.

Mr Graham, 54, who lives in Muswell Hill, led the children in a skipping demonstration, showed the children his competition belt and answered questions about his life and career.

He also described, to the pleasure and disgust of the children, how he managed to detach his retina during a fight.

The Amateur Boxing Association light middleweight champion, who took up boxing aged eight, was very impressed with the enthusiasm and curiosity of the children.

He said: “It’s been great; I like it when the children get something out of my visit as these have done.

“I very much enjoy coming into schools and talking to children about the importance of fitness and discipline.”

School governor Biagio Gizzi helped organise the visit.

He said: “The kids are in awe of Mr Graham, you can see it on their faces.

“They’re really curious, and have come up with excellent questions.

“The children loved watching his skipping and there were cheers when he took out his medals.”

Mr Graham’s visit was organised to promote Box Cleva, which will restart tomorrow at the Hertswood Centre in Potters Lane.

The non-contact boxing club, which is open to children from eight to 15, helps teach them importance of living a healthy lifestyle as well as helping them control their aggression.

Watch commander at Borehamwood Fire Station Bob Williams, who leads the Box Cleva sessions, was at the school.

He said: “It’s brilliant to have Herol at the school, he’s a real character.

“Boxing and Box Cleva are a great way to give children self confidence, self esteem and discipline.

“The school is very big on fitness and I hope many of the pupils will come to Box Cleva.”

Headteacher Teresa McBride said she was very pleased to have Mr Graham at the school.

She said: “He gave the right message to the children, about promoting discipline and perseverance.

“The school is always ready to support a local initiative such as Box Cleva.”