COUNTDOWN’S Rachel Riley returned to her former school to conduct a huge maths lesson for youngsters across the borough via satellite.

The popular presenter, 24, took a break from the Channel 4 show to go back to Southend High School for Girls.

The other schools involved were Belfairs High, Shoebury High, Sacred Heart Primary, Milton Hall Primary, St George’s Primary, Chase High School and Futures Community College.

Rachel said: “It was a great opportunity to share my passion for maths.

“I’ve always liked solving puzzles and, thanks to some great teachers, I was able to excel in my favourite subjects.”

The special Number Day event was organised by the NSPCC.

Kate Hudson, NSPCC schools fundraising manager, said: “It was a fantastic way to get children engaged with maths. For eight schools this year it is even more exciting as Rachel gave the lesson.

“Number Day is an excellent opportunity to show that maths can be fun and meaningful too and schools still have time to join in by planning their own maths challenges.”

Oxford grad Rachel, from Thorpe Bay, became famous after replacing Carol Vorderman on the Channel 4 show.

Nationwide more than 1,600 schools signed up to take part in Number Day.

This year all schools who send in their donations will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win £1,000 worth of maths equipment, courtesy of sponsor Vosene.

Number Day packs are available to download now at www.nspcc.org.uk/numberday