OPINION: Michael is a 'shining example of hard work and talent'

Michael has become an ambassador for the school’s campaign for a special playground and hopefully his presence will make a difference.

It was noticeable how much the children warmed to him.

Michael is a good role model for St Helens and he shows a real passion for his hometown.

He’s also a shining example of where hard work and talent can take you, which in a working class town such as St Helens – where low aspiration is a recognised problem – is a positive.

As a town we continue to punch above our weight when it comes to people achieving at a national level in the arts, sport, business and entertainment.

It makes you wonder what kind of a difference people such as Michael could have if they became part of a collective approach.

Over the past 12 months a group of St Helens Ambassadors has formed. This has been steadily growing as part of the Invest in St Helens campaign.

Headed by the Saints chairman Eamonn McManus it aims to create positive perceptions of the borough, attract new investment and raise aspiration.

It is primarily involving businesses but organisations such as schools are involved too. I’d suggest there is role for someone like Michael, and other high achievers like him, in this too.

Get them on board to understand the message and perhaps their energy and passion for St Helens can be utilised to a) raise aspiration of youngsters and b) sell a positive message of the town in other areas of the country.

•  It is worrying to see another gun crime incident linked to St Helens. In the last few months there have been two shootings in Haydock and two in Whiston. All have seen victims blasted in the legs. Gun crime is not something commonly associated with St Helens, so it is natural Star readers’ concerns are growing. It is important police put the right amount of resources into the affected neighbourhood’s and speak to the communities about the concerns.