Hugh Dennis opens The Littlehampton Academy

Hugh, who stars on hit BBC1 sitcom Outnumbered as well as comedy panel show Mock The Week and Radio 4’s The Now Show, cut the ribbon in front of hundreds of students and teachers.

As soon as the 51-year-old entered the school dozens of youngsters surrounded him pleading to have their books, lesson planners or any scrap of loose of paper signed by the star, while others asked for photos on their mobile phones.

“I was really taken back by it all,” admitted Hugh. “I started my career way before these children were even born so it’s always a surprise when I’m mobbed like this. But a very pleasant one!”

The launch of the academy comes months after the building was unofficially opened to students, in September, last year.

During his time at the school, the television star was taken on a tour of the site and even visited a few lessons – at one point teaching a class of geography students about longshore drift.

Hugh added: “I think this is a really fun and friendly school and it was a joy to visit.

“The building is wonderful and I feel very privileged to have opened it.”

For the full story, plus pictures, see Thursday’s Gazette (June 13).