STUDENTS and staff from schools and colleges across Staffordshire were treated to a talk by a world class equestrian at a university television studio.

Lee Pearson, winner of nine Paralympic Games dressage gold medals, five World Championship and six European titles, spoke to an audience of 80 people at Staffordshire University's Stafford campus on Thursday.

Cheddleton-based Lee, an honorary doctor at the university and awarded the Editor's Special Award by The Sentinel last year, spent the afternoon sharing his experiences and answering audience questions.

Nigel Thomas, head of sport and exercise at the university, said: "It was an inspiring talk, a no holds barred explanation of how he grew up, his disability and the overwhelming support he's received from colleagues, friends and elite athletes.

"He made no qualms that he was born with a very special talent."