FORMER Cumnock Rugby Club star Mark Bennett returned to his old school this week to show off his shiny Olympic medal to the youngsters.

Mark picked up a silver medal in the men’s rugby sevens at the Rio Olympics last summer and he flaunted his prize to pupils at St Joseph’s Academy in Kilmarnock.

Cumnock lad, Mark spoke to the pupils about his sporting success and passed on some tips.

One of his key messages was healthy eating – and the pupils were quick to point out that they had already embraced this thanks to ‘The Street’ – a superb themed gathering place in the school, where meals can be enjoyed with chit chat, music and entertainment.

The Street was designed by the pupils as part of a marketing and branding competition with other secondary schools – with the prize being their concept getting turned into reality.

Sponsored by East Ayrshire Council’s Facilities Management Team, the winning St Joseph’s pupils got to work with Totalize Media and will also enjoy a visit to a development kitchen in Covent Garden, London who specialise in Street Food, to give them fresh ideas on how to develop their school facility.

Mark said: “The Street is a brilliant idea and really helps emphasise how important it is to watch what you eat.

“In sport, maintaining the right balance of food is vital for top performance and it’s just the same when it comes to school work. I wish it had been there in my day, as it’s a great idea.”

Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills said: “Every year we serve over 1.2 million school meals made with fresh, local ingredients and we encourage children to try new things and appreciate good food.

“Each school has its own arrangements in place to support pupils in making healthy food choices and to help them with the practicalities of lunchtime so that they can fully enjoy their meals.

“The Street is a great concept.

“and gives pupils a place to meet and take time to enjoy their lunch and I’m glad Mark likes the concept.”