Television and stage illusionist Derren Brown visited a Loughborough school today in memory of a former pupil who passed away last year.
The star met students at De Lisle College to commemorate Joe Humphries, 14, who collapsed and died while jogging near his home in Rothley in October.
Best known for his mind tricks, Derren is also a talented painter. He was invited to the school by Joe's art teacher, Sarah Ward, to share his work with students.
Derren talked about his love of art and shared his techniques with students before answering questions.
"It's great to be able to raise awareness of Joe and the condition Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome," he said. "I'm told that he was a very talented young artist and showed great promise, so to talk to his fellow students about art seemed very appropriate.
"Although I've never had any formal training, it's something I really enjoyed at school and I'm not precious about. It was lovely to talk to them and share our interests.
"I know that a trust, set up in memory of Joe, aims to inspire young people, and I can only hope that by visiting today I have achieved that. I've thoroughly enjoyed it."
Derren, whose recent artwork includes portraits of Michael Sheen and Dame Judi Dench, spoke to year 10 students who knew Joe well, along with A-Level art students.
Student Matt Noon, 18, also presented Derren with his own portrait of the star.
Matt said: "I was really pleased with the way it turned out and he said it was excellent. He generally seemed pleased to have it."
Pupil Sophia Guarasci, 16, said: "It was great to pick up some of Derren's tips on artwork and to hear about his influences.
"I really enjoyed the lesson and it's a nice way for us all to pay tribute to Joe."
Fellow pupil Georgina Smith said: "It's amazing just how talented he is. It's been a great day and totally out of the ordinary to have someone like Derren Brown talking to us about art.
"He showed us some of the caricatures he's done and portraits, including one of his mum."
A trust has been set up by Joe's family – dad Steve, mum Angela and sister Lauren – to raise awareness of SAD.
It also aims to inspire young people through art and sport.
Ms Ward said Derren's visit was very fitting.
She said: "I taught Joe art throughout the school - he had a phenomenal talent. I think it was an area he may well have made a career out of so it was hugely fitting that we honour him through Derren's visit."
