A TOUCH of Olympic glory came to schools in East Dorset on Monday in the shape of sailing gold medallist Andy Simpson.

The Sherborne man, who clinched gold in the Star class at the Beijing Games with sailing partner Iain Percy, called in at Ferndown First School and West Moors Middle School.

Ferndown First School was the first stop on Andy's busy itinerary with excited youngsters showing off a boat made in a school project.

Year one teacher, Gary Smith, said children questioned Andy on a range of subjects, from his training regime to plans to defend his title in 2012.

Then it was off to West Moors Middle School, where thrilled pupils followed their Ferndown counterparts in laying hands on the gold medal.

Key stage three leader, Jeremy Payne, told the Daily Echo that the Olympian's visit had inspired a "buzz" in the school.

"I think he's had a sizeable impact on the children. I think he's shown the children that anything is possible," he added.