James Cape has become the latest pupil at St Mary's School, Menston to receive the Jamie Payne Ross Award.

It is presented to a Year Eight boy for outstanding achievement in physical education.

The award was presented in assembly this morning by former St Mary's student Aidan White, who plays for Leeds United.

Cape's citation reads: "James is an outstanding pupil who always gives his best in PE lessons. He has achieved a very high standard in martial arts performance and competition outside of school. "He showed tremendous potential from his first days at the school, attending both football and rugby training and displayed outstanding skill levels and commitment. "He has continued with football at school and, in addition, participates in the school cricket team. As a pupil he has impressed staff with his positive and supportive approach in lessons which, to the PE staff, is just as much a part of this award as the high levels of sports performance.

"James is certainly a worthy winner."

White, 19, has played several times for Leeds United's first team and the England under-19 team and is widely regarded in the game as an outstanding prospect.

Last season Aidan gained valuable first-team experience on loan at Oldham Athletic, where he made a tremendous impact.

While at St Mary’s as a 13-year-old, Aidan was awarded the Jamie Payne-Ross trophy by Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson.

Assistant headteacher David Geldart said: “Aidan is a great lad and a wonderful role model.

"When asked to present the award, he said it would be an honour. Having won the award himself, Aidan knows more than most how important the occasion is.

"Aidan is in regular contact with the school and is a great supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership regarding the school’s work in South Africa.”

During the special ceremony, Aidan was presented with the Bambisanani Award for his outstanding support of the school’s work in South Africa with Mnyakanya School.

The Jamie Payne Ross Award, named in honour of a pupil who died tragically, was presented to the school by Jamie’s mother Colleen and elder brother Adam.