ROMSEY students met a real-life adventurer.

James Ketchell visited the Romsey School to inspire pupils and regale them with tales of his international adventures.

James, a motivational speaker and a Scouting ambassador, has rowed across the Atlantic Ocean, climbed Mount Everest and cycled 18,000 miles around the world.

He has battled through some of the toughest challenges nature can throw at him, including descending Everest while suffering from pneumonia and being caught in a violent storm in the middle of the ocean.

His talk at the Romsey School thrilled pupils with tales of his adventures, as well as important messages about how it is possible to achieve the extraordin- ary.

He said: “We can all potentially set ourselves difficult goals and achieve them. The capability to succeed is within everyone and I’m passionate about spreading that message, particularly to young people. The pupils at the Romsey School all have an exciting future ahead of them and I hope my messages of self-belief, commitment and persistence inspire them in their own goals and challenges.”

James’ visit to the school was made possible through Barratt Homes’ community and educational outreach programme.

The company is bringing new homes to Romsey through its Kings Chase development.