Former England rugby captain Lawrence Dallaglio visited pupils at a special school to open their new fitness suite.

Equipment for the gym at Oaklands Special School was provided by the Middlesex region of the national rugby charity, Wooden Spoon, to complete a £300,000 extension. The school helps children aged from 11 to 19 with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

Former Wasps star Mr Dallaglio – nicknamed Dally – is president of the Middlesex branch of the charity.

He said: “After many years as a professional rugby player, I know how vital fitness is and I know the children will derive huge mental and physical benefits from their new gym.”

The school specialises in sensory and physical development and the gym equipment will be invaluable in helping Oaklands children cope with their difficulties.

Middlesex Spoon chairman Gordon Brown said: “We are delighted to be able to help the school with the very important work they do for the children, and we are enormously grateful to the generosity of our sponsors, Brixton UK plc.”