A Harrow Weald school is celebrating after one of its pupils ranked highly in a public speaking competition.

Brian Wachiera, 14, from Salvatorian College in High Road, came second when he represented the school at the Harrow Borough Final of the Jack Petchey Speak Out competition.

Eastender Jack left school aged 14 with no qualifications but went on to become a successful businessman. He set up the Jack Petchey Foundation in 1999 to encourage children from similar backgrounds.

Brian gave a speech called Ignorance is not always Bliss at the competition, which took place at Bentley Wood High School in Stanmore yesterday.

In a statement, Salvatorian College said: “The standard of all the participants was exceptionally high this year so Salvatorian is incredibly proud of Brian for reaching the finals and achieving second place.

“This is another great success for Salvatorian.”