HUNDREDS of students were given a warm welcome to the new school year at an event designed to motivate, inspire and promote teamwork.

The Rt Rev Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford, was the guest of honour at the Shaping the Future day at Belfairs Academy, in Leigh.

During his speech, Mr Cottrell, a former Belfairs student, spoke of the need to help, guide and support others and urged students to work hard and do their best.

Mr Cottrell, who is now in the House of Lords, met students and handed them a pen to mark