RUGBY legend Jonah Lomu paid a visit to Ballard School to recognise its contribution to fund raising for children's hospice Naomi House.

The former All Black, one of the most famous rugby players of all time, is an ambassador for Naomi House and was marking Ballard's £18,000 donation in the last year.

Children and parents at the New Milton school, where a family tragically lost their daughter, have raised the impressive sum and are now recognised with a golden leaf on a special tree at the Hampshire hospice.

The tree marks all significant contributions made by everyday people and small organisations, amounting to £80,000 so far.

The £18,000 raised by Ballard parents and the school makes them the single biggest donor currently recognised on the tree.

Jonah Lomu gave an inspiring talk during school assembly, giving advice to pupils aiming to be the best in their chosen field.

Ballard Headmaster, Alastair Reid, said: "We are absolutely honoured to have had our donations recognised by Naomi House with the golden leaf and a visit from their legendary ambassador.

"Naomi House and Jacksplace are a fantastic local charity. We are pleased to have aided the great work the charity does in supporting children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses across Hampshire and Dorset.”

He added: "Jonah’s visit was particularly inspiring for all our students and we hope they will all remember his motivating words which came down to one thing, discipline. He also emphasised the importance in education of working hard to open up as many opportunities as possible. An important message for all our students."