Lessons were cancelled at St Charles primary school, North Kensington, London, when Olympic medalist Kriss Akabusi MBE, visited last week.

Kriss came for the launch of Families For All - the new name for the Catholic Children's Society (Westminster) Family Placement Team. Kriss cut a special cake and the day was marked with a balloon launch.

Introducing the event, director Jim Richards (whose birthday it was) described a little girl in care that he knew who was not used to receiving birthday cards or presents. He said: "We want every child to have a family that celebrates their birthday each year."

After meeting children, adopters and social workers, Kriss spoke of his own own childhood in care. he said: "My parents went to Nigeria during the war and never came back. I never had the benefit of living with a family of my own. I never knew the warmth and support that brings."

But, he said there were some key adults who played very positive roles in his growing up. One was his social worker, Steve Longworth, who is now team leader with Families For All. "Steve looked after me a lot," Kriss said. "We've been friends ever since."

After school, Kriss went into the army and he says Sgt Ian MacKenzie was another adult who had a terrific influence on him.

Kriss said: "He encouraged me to run. He bought me my first pair of spikes.

"As adopters you have the power to touch a life, to mould a future, to make a difference. It's a challenge. You can work magic. It is so important for every child to have the chance to reach their full potential. To be in the race."

Praising the work of Families for All, Kriss spoke about the importance of teamwork: "There's no limit to what a person can accomplish if they don't mind who gets the credit."

In spite of growing up in care, Kriss went on to become one of the UK's top athletes. He beat the British 22 year record to win Gold Medal in the 1990 European Championships. He began his International career in 1983 as a member of the 4x400 metre relay squad and will probably always be remembered for helping Britain clinch the Gold and beat the Americans in the World Championships 4x400 metre relay in Tokyo in 1991.

In 1992 Kriss was awarded the MBE for services to the country through athletics. Married with two children, he now gives talks, writes and is a television presenter.

The youngsters from St Charles primary were thrilled with their VIP guest and mobbed him for autographs.

Tony Casey 11, deputy head boy, and Ife Agebola, 11, head girl, had the job of looking after Kriss.

Tony said: "It was great to meet an Olympic medalist. I liked the message about his family. He said it doesn't matter if they're your real family so long as they love you. It doesn't matter if you are last in the race so long as you take part."

Ife agreed with Tony and added: "Kriss Akabusi was really happy. He always had a smile. I was really excited to meet him."

There are currently 5,000 children in care. Families For All hope to find families for many of them this year. If you would like more information contact: Families For All, 73 St Charles Square, London W10 6EJ, tel: 0208 969 5305.