US political firebrand Reverend Jesse Jackson gave a rousing speech to a rapt audience of parents and pupils at a Maida Vale secondary school. The American civil rights campaigner made a much-anticipated appearance at St George s on Lanark Road last Frida

US political firebrand Reverend Jesse Jackson gave a rousing speech to a rapt audience of parents and pupils at a Maida Vale secondary school.

The American civil rights campaigner made a much-anticipated appearance at St George's on Lanark Road last Friday.

More than 300 people turned up to hear the great orator speak and according to local MP Karen Buck, who invited Jackson to the school, they were not disappointed.

She said: "You could see why he's a reverend. It wasn't a political speech - it was very motivational about self-help.

"I chose St George's because it has just been named the most improved school in London and it was entirely appropriate.

"He talked about people coming from a disadvantaged background and achieving so much. The audience's response, which wasn't solely black but was mostly black or ethnic minorities, was hugely positive.