Former professional footballer turned children’s author Luke Staton talked to youngsters about his sporting career and what motivated him to write during a visit to St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Edwinstowe.

Luke is on a mission to open the hearts and minds of young people to pursue and follow their dreams, whatever they may be.

He explained how his own footballing dreams were inspired by his primary school headteacher when he was given the opportunity to visit Wembley Stadium as a youngster, little knowing he would later go on to play at Wembley, for England Schoolboys, and have a professional football career. Unfortunately, that ended prematurely in his early 20s.

During his talk, Luke discussed his book, Credo, which reflects on his own journey, and encourages children to follow their dreams.

Luke said: “I had the wonderful opportunity to visit an absolutely remarkable school of wonderful young people and teachers too.

“It’s a real privilege to get the opportunity to travel the world and share stories of hope, optimism, and inspiration — and to open the hearts and minds of young people to pursue and follow their dreams, whatever they may be.

“Thank you to all the young people that inspire me in every room I walk into. I will continue this mission for the rest of my time!”

St Mary’s headteacher Jennifer Bailey added: “Luke’s story fits perfectly with our school vision — together we love, learn and flourish.

“We want all of our children to flourish and be the best they can be, and Luke’s story of following his dreams is truly an inspiration that children were thrilled to learn about.”