AN OLYMPIC hero who claimed gold at the 2012 London Olympics led an inspirational assembly for pupils at an Eastleigh school.

Dani King, the Team GB cycling champion, who claimed gold at the London Olympics in 2012 as part of the women’s cycling pursuit, met pupils from St Francis Church of England Primary School.

The assembly took place as part of Aldi’s partnership with Team GB.

Dani spoke to the youngsters about her career so far and about how the benefits of healthy eating and exercise have helped her to achieve her goals.

Esther Jones, the headteacher at the school said: “The children and staff thought the assembly was great and we really enjoyed listening to Dani’s passion for her sport and the encouragement she gave to the children about following their dreams.

"Seeing the gold medal in real life was amazing and has left a lasting impression."

Dani’s visit follows the opening of the new Aldi store in Eastleigh, and as part of the discount supermarket’s ‘Get Set to Eat Fresh’ initiative, which aims to reach 1.2 million young people aged 5- fourteen across the UK by developing their understanding and love for fresh, healthy food.