FUNNYMAN Johnny Vegas was on hand as a special guest at De La Salle School’s presentation evening – and shared memories on his schooldays.

The comedian, whose real name is Michael Pennington, is a former pupil of the school when it was known as West Park.

He spoke about the importance of his family life and advised the ex-pupils to make the best of every opportunity they are presented with in life and to pursue their dreams.

Michael, who chronicles his schooldays in his autobiography Becoming Johnny Vegas, helped celebrate the school’s year 11 leavers receiving their GCSE certificates.

He brought plenty of humour to the night – with highlights including his recollection of the trepidation he felt at informing his father of his third class degree result, only to be met with the reply: “I never thought you’d pass!”

The comedian and actor was joined by St Helens Council’s director of children and young people’s services, Andy Dempsey, as guests for the evening alongside school governors, staff and families.

Head teacher Will Daunt and chairman of governors designate Phil Topping paid tribute to the hard work of the ex-pupils and of the school community as De La Salle celebrates the completion of its new school buildings.

There was also time for reflection, as those present were asked to remember past pupil Steve Prescott and the late chairman of governors Brother Alban in their prayers, during the school’s first presentation since their passing.

Mr Daunt concluded the ceremony by thanking the parents of the leaving pupils for their children “which we have handed back to you in slightly more exotic wrapping paper, but with its essential qualities very much intact.”