Pupils were thrilled to welcome a VIP guest to their school.

It was actress Joanna Lumely who had earlier in the day attended a Gurkha soldier march in Folkestone. She took up an invitation to visit the Folkestone Academy, where a house is named after her.

Principal Sean Heslop said: “Joanna Lumley is a charming lady and a passionate advocate for the academy. She is very interested in what we are achieving here and in the individual students. Her presence at the academy has inspired us all.”

The Academy’s eight houses are all named after renowned public figures.

During her tour the actress visited the hair and beauty, maths, science and art departments.