PUPILS at a Whitefield high school enjoyed a lyrical day of learning when they were visited by legendary poet Tony Walsh.

The Prestwich bard, who famously penned the poem This is the Place, dropped in on Philips High School to give a performance and talk to pupils about the art of poetry.

Commissioned in 2012 to encapsulate the spirit of Greater Manchester, This is the Place took on renewed meaning in the aftermath of the Arena attack in 2017, when Mr Walsh delivered a heart-rending and defiant reading at the vigil outside Manchester Town Hall in front of thousands and watched by millions around the world.

During his visit to Philips High School Mr Walsh talked to pupils about poetry and his experiences following the memorable performance.

He also spoke with pupils from Years 7, 8 and 9 about his humble beginnings, and how he conquered illness and his shyness to become "the poet that united at city".

Mr Walsh then gave masterclasses in poetry and its performance to Year 10 and 11 pupils, where he discussed rhyme, speed, tone, volume and movement.

Assistant headteacher Justine Bailey thanked Mr Walsh for his visit to the school adding: "His poetry was inspirational and you could have heard a pin drop during his performance of "This is the Place".

"We were delighted and honoured to meet a man so passionate about his home city, the arts and creativity."