Ref. 72745-164 Matt ODowd (third left) returns to Commonweal School to present the prizes. From left are Rebecca Cann, Ross Cullen, head teacher Keith Defter, chair ofgovernors, Christine Hardisty; Gemma Gillies, Sam LamdonSWINDON Olympian Matt O'Dowd returned to his old school to hand out prizes to the highest-achieving pupils.

Matt, 28, was at Commonweal School in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This summer, he completed the marathon at this year's Olympic Games in Athens, finishing in 50th place.

Last night he was on stage in the school hall to present certificates and trophies to the highest-achieving students.

Head teacher Keith Defter said: "As Matt O'Dowd is an ex-Commonwealian and an Olympian in this, the year of the Athens Olympics, he is the ideal person to come and present our special prizes for individuals who have stood out over the course of the year."

Prizes awarded included awards for excellence in everything from history to drama, as well as prizes for best performance by boys and girls in each of the schools four houses, and prizes for the most house points awarded.