ASSISTANT Chief Commissioner Tarique Ghaffur of the Metropolitan Police visited a Hounslow school on Wednesday - when he was guest of honour at the Heathland School's annual National Records of Achievement Ceremony.

ACC Ghaffur also gave a talk to Year 11 students on the law, criminology and the changing nature and challenges of policing in England today. This was then followed by a seminar/ questions and answers session for students who had expressed a particular interest in careers associated with law.

A spokesman for the school said: "The school aims to provide students with insights into different aspects of public life, as well as provide information about a range of careers.

"Tarique Ghaffur is well known not only as one of the highest ranking police officers in Britain but also as a superb public speaker. He makes it clear that he has a strong commitment to and interest in passing on his knowledge, experience and insights to the next generation."

In addition to his experience of policing and running the largest police force in Europe, he also has degrees in Criminology and Public Administration. He received the Queen's Police Medal for services to policing in 2001 and has also been recognised with a number of high achievement awards from different London community groups.