A TV personality proved an expected star at a borough school's Year Six leaving event.

East Tilbury Primary School held a memorable celebration to mark the end of an important chapter for pupils leaving the school to go on to secondary.

As part of the festivities, the children performed Gigglebox – a hilarious and heartwarming production inspired by the popular television show Gogglebox.

The school was delighted and honoured to welcome Gogglebox personality Baasit Siddiqui, who not only spent time meeting staff, parents and pupils but also made a special guest appearance in the performance, much to everyone's excitement.

Following the show, on Friday (17 July), Baasit joined the whole school community to celebrate as leavers took part in the school's cherished tradition of running through the school gates one final time.

It was a fitting and emotional send-off, filled with laughter, pride and lasting memories for pupils, families and staff alike.

A statement from the school said: "We were delighted to welcome Baasit Siddiqui, well known for his appearances on the hit television show Gogglebox, to East Tilbury Primary School.

"Baasit has inspired thousands of young people through his work in education and media, and it was a privilege to have him join us for our special celebration.

"A huge thank you to Baasit for taking the time to visit our school and make the day so memorable for our children."

After the visit Baasit posted on hois social media page: "Today marked my final in-person school visit of this academic year, and I can't think of a more fitting way to end it.

"I was invited by the wonderful Ravi from the Osborne Trust to attend a Year Six leavers' assembly at East Tilbury Primary school.

"But this wasn't just any assembly. The children also performed their end of year production, Gigglebox a brilliant, heartfelt nod to Gogglebox that saw a family reacting to the highs, lows and wonderfully quirky moments of primary school life through different tv shows.

"From East Tilbury's Got Talent to Strictly Fun Dancing, every sketch captured something so recognisable about school life.

"My personal favourite was The Repair Shed, where a devastated teacher couldn't even speak because her Pritt Stick had dried up. If you've ever worked in a school, you'll know why this has me chuckling.

"Beneath the humour was something so special.

"I had the privilege of watching children say goodbye to a place that has shaped them, teachers being celebrated for the difference they've made, parents bursting with pride, and tissues appearing from every direction.

"It was a powerful reminder of a school's place in a community. I didn't know the children or families but I had a smile on my face and a lump in my throat throughout.

"Schools create memories that last a lifetime.

"I'm always thanked for being a part of these moments. But it's a sincere gift that I'm given to spend my days visiting schools and witnessing these moments.

"They rarely make the headlines, but they're happening every single day in classrooms across the country.

"So, as another academic year comes to a close, thank you to every teacher, teaching assistant, leader, office administrator, site team member, lunchtime supervisor and volunteer who has poured their energy into young people this year.

"Despite the SATs debacle, you've all still showed up and guided your kids through such a bitter sweet time.

"Have a truly well-deserved summer break. Over the coming weeks I'll be sharing some of the moments, conversations and reflections that have made me incredibly proud to work across education this year.

"However, for now, here's to all of those in education but especially Year Six.

"Keep doing what you're doing. Get ready to smash Year Seven and have an amazing summer."