A Hollywood actor visited a Harold Wood school last week to lend his support to its anti-racism and human rights charity.

Excited students from Redden Court School in Cotswold Road met Winston Ellis – who has starred in Pirates of the Caribbean and The Dark Knight – to talk about their Rainbow Nation project, which started out as a school project but is hoping to go national this year.

The youngsters put on a special presentation explaining their commitment to equal opportunities, human rights and international friendship for the celebrity.

Winston spoke about his life in Hong Kong working with Jackie Chan and his role in the Pirates of the Caribbean films with Johnny Depp. Winston encouraged the students to study and work hard and then follow their dreams in whatever career they chose.

Headteacher, Paul Ward said: “Winston gave a great speech which was rapturously received by the audience.

“I am very proud of our young people who have shown a commitment to human rights which will stay with them all their lives.”

England football team physio Gary Lewin is also supporting the project, which was launched nine years ago after Thierry Henry gave an anti-racism video-presentation to pupils.

The teacher behind the charity, Meg Ryan, is hoping it will become a registered charity this year.