ACTOR Michael Parr may be on the way to LA to pursue his dreams but he found time to drop by at his old high school to inspire a new generation.

Michael, whose Ross Barton character recently exited ITV soap Emmerdale, was the guest speaker at De La Salle's Presentation Evening which sees the previous school year's leavers return to collect their GCSE certificates.

Duke of Edinburgh Awards and Special Leavers’ Awards were also presented.

This included ‘The Brother Hilary Cup’ given each year for special merit and outstanding service to the school, which was awarded to Tarveen Kaur.

Aaron Groves won special recognition for his courage and quick-thinking as he saved his dad’s life by performing CPR.

Michael gave an inspirational and amusing speech on an enjoyable and reflective evening.