Watford goalkeeper shoots into St Albans school

When it comes to silverware, Watford goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin wants local youngsters to use it to eat healthy and balanced meals.

The Hornet player visited Margaret Wix Primary School at High Oaks in St Albans recently to help celebrate their learning on healthy eating.

While there, he spoke to pupils about the importance of making good choices for life.

The 6ft 5in goalkeeper was also on hand to judge the best eating snacks produced by children throughout the week.

In June last year the footballer signed a new two-year deal with Watford FC, which has its training base at Bell Lane in London Colney, next to Arsenal’s.

Headteacher Damien Johnston said the governing body of Margaret Wix donated prizes for a writing challenge – with pupils’ texts ranging from informative leaflets to arguments about the need to choose healthy meals.

There has also been a hive of activity at the school’s well-equipped food technology room.

Damien said: “Rene was a fantastic role model, and he gave the children good advice about healthy eating for life, and how this can help achieve goals.

“He has a good sense of humour and the children were in awe of his sheer presence, as he is a huge personality.

“We are looking to develop links with Watford FC, as our school looks at ways of making our curriculum exciting and related to real life experiences for the children.”