Bede’s Senior School in Upper Dicker welcomed Karen-Mae Hill, OBE, high commissioner for Antigua and Barbuda, alongside Daryll Matthew, minister for education, sport and the creative industries, and Brent Scotland, representative of Antigua.

The visitors were given a guided tour of the school, near Lewes, focusing on its renowned cricket programme.

Sir Vivian Richards, celebrated as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, inspired pupils with his passion for cricket.

Ms Hill also took time to speak to Dajari, a current Sixth Form pupil from Antigua, expressing her pride in his success.

The guests also met with Bede’s academy cricket team and pupils preparing for their cricket tour to Antigua in February.

Mr Richards shared insights with pupils, answering questions about his career and his decision to face some of cricket’s fastest bowlers without a helmet.

Alan Wells, director of cricket at Bede’s, said: “Our pupils were delighted to discuss Sir Viv’s views on technique, the modern game and his courage on the field. 

“His promise to cheer them on in Antigua was the perfect end to a truly memorable day.”