Pupils at Middleton on the Wolds Primary School have been trying to ‘tempt a celebrity’ in a recent letter writing campaign.   To coincide with Great British Pie Week, several children chose celebrities whom they would most like to have their school dinner with.

Thomas and Joseph, both keen rugby players at the school, explained that they would love to have their school lunches with a real life professional rugby player. Having heard from the boys, international rugby league star, Iafeta Paleaaesina agreed to come in and enjoy Thursday’s pie at the pupils’ table.

The New Zealand born forward is one of the most decorated players in the game and made his breakthrough in the NRL with New Zealand Warriors. On the international stage he helped the Kiwis win the 2005 Tri Nations Series, before switching allegiance to represent Samoa at the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. He joined Wigan Warriors ahead of the 2006 season and helped them win the Super League Grand Final four years later, defeating St Helens 22-10 at Old Trafford.

Paleaaesina bowed out on a high with Wigan, joining Salford for the 2011 season where he spent two years before a spell in France with Limoux. He returned to Super League with Hull FC, where he spent the last three seasons, going on to make his 200th top flight appearance. He is now enjoying his testimonial year with Doncaster.

Accompanying Paleaaesina, was ex-New Zealand international, Carl Hall.

Great British Pie Week began on the 6^{th of} March and Mrs Goodwin, the school’s cook, created a pie filled menu to treat the children’s taste buds. The range on offer was impressive with steak pie, cottage pie and roast chicken and ham pie all appearing throughout the week.

Executive Headteacher, Steve Woodhouse, was particularly looking forward to the meals. ‘British Pie Week is always something to look forward to. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate good old fashioned British values. The kids all know that I like my pies, apparently you can tell…’

Several other celebrities sent in their apologies, including singer songwriter, Marc Atkinson.  Mr Woodhouse was disappointed that the other guests couldn’t make it, ‘Marc is busy singing up in the North West and couldn’t commit to the timings. We are going to invite him in on another occasion instead.’

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