TRIPLE jumper Jonathan Edwards will be the guest of honour at South Essex College’s graduation ceremony next month.

The gold medal winner, who has held the world record since 1995, will deliver a keynote speech to graduating higher education students at the Cliffs Pavilion, on Tuesday, October 21.

The former Olympic, World, Commonwealth and European champion is expected to recount tales of his days on the track, using his experiences to inspire and uplift students.

He will also hand out degree certificates to students who have graduated from the Southend campus of the college, in Luker Road. Edwards said: “I actually won the English Schools title in Thurrock in 1984. It was there I realised my athletic potential.

“It was a hugely significant moment in my career.

“I am really looking forward to being part of the ceremony. Moments to celebrate achievements are special. It will be great to see the students and their pleasure at being awarded their degrees.”

Known for his extraordinary athletic achievements, Edwards is one of the world’s greatest and most admired athletes.

Now a member of the BBC’s sports presenting team, he reports from major athletics events around the world.

He made it into the record books during the 1995 World Championships, when he broke the world record with a massive jump of 18.29metres.

The Sydney Olympics in 2000 saw him achieve his ultimate goal of winning a gold medal and he was appointed a CBE in 2001.

He added: “The world record and medals are the best, but my biggest achievement would be seeing the journey through to get to that point.

“When training, every day is a battle – keeping the discipline and overcoming injuries.

“There were days when I wanted to give up, but I’m proud of myself for sticking with it.”

He added: “The most important thing is to believe in yourself.

“Everyone is capable of achieving, you just have to work out your strengths and weaknesses and focus on getting the best out of yourself.”