Newton Prep children got to see table tennis played at its best when Darius Knight, who will be coaching Tuesday's Table Tennis Club, came to demonstrate his skills. Olympic athlete and 2012 torchbearer Darius, who has won the British Men's title three times, showed off the speed and agility that have made him the "Lewis Hamilton" of the international table tennis circuit. He then invited some Newton Prep boys and girls to play, challenging them to return his serve, which veered from full-on attack to having such spin on it that the ball seemed to have a mind of its own, and a contrary one at that.
"It was great to see the kids being so enthusiastic," Darius said afterwards. "I liked the way they were so supportive of their own PE teacher when he stood up to play against me: there were loads of cheers."
Sadly Mr Ferdinand was no match for Darius's shake-hand thrills and skills - only one of Darius's challengers managed to return serve.
Mr Kendall picks volunteers to go up against Darius Knight, pictured right.
Table Tennis Club will run on Tuesdays from 4.15-5.30pm. It is currently fully-subscribed but staff may look into expanding the table tennis offer. If you would like your child to join Table Tennis Club, please email Kerra Soker on [email protected]
