Son of Bermondsey headteacher is world champion…again! - Hughes

12.00.00am GMT Mon 4th Feb 2008

Simon Hughes, Member of Parliament for North Southwark and Bermondsey, has given formal parliamentary congratulations to Elliot Willis , double world champion son of a Bermondsey primary school headteacher, and his fellow gold medallist Nic Asher . Simon has put Elliott and Nic on the House of Commons agenda after they took gold for Britain on Thursday 31st January 2008 , coming from third to first in a thrilling final race in the 470 Men's World Sailing championship at Mordialloc Sailing Club, Australia.

Simon was especially delighted with the victory, which was the pair's second world title after their earlier victory in China in 2006, because Elliot is the son of Karen Willis, Head teacher of St James C of E Primary School , where Simon is not only local MP but also Chair of Governors.

Commenting on the dramatic victory, which came after Elliot was badly injured in an earlier race, Simon said:

''Elliot and Nic defied the odds and pulled off a marvellous victory down under. Their success is an example of how well Britain has been doing in sailing competitions throughout the world in recent years. This great victory bodes well for many further successes for British men and women in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Elliott and Nic are now hoping that their win might give them a place in the Olympic team

''Karen is a good friend of mine, and I have met Elliott several times. I was delighted to hear of his victory in Australia. Karen does excellent work for many children in Bermondsey and now Elliott and Nic can be great role models for local young people too. ''.

ENDS