SCHOOL pupils in Dalry welcomed a special visitor to the school recently as part of their World of Work Week.

Primary 1 and 5 pupils at Dalry Primary were lucky enough to meet Tom Keogh, a local grandpa and now-retired marine engineer, who had a career spanning over 50 years

He told the class how he trained at the shipyards in Greenock and spoke about the ships that he was responsible for.

Tom also shared how much he loved his job and his best advice was for the children to choose a job which they love.

His informative presentation excited the children as they got to see how he problem-solved out at sea. He was also involved in creating a wind farm offshore.

Tom also revealed that now he's retired, he misses his work so much that he now volunteers to help maintain the Waverley at the Glasgow Science Centre during the winter.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Tom Keogh at Dalry Primary

Tom said: "Primary 1 was a mix of a few questions, wee stories and information on sharks and travelling on ferries. It was lots of fun.

"Primary 5 was a completely different story. Again, very enjoyable and they had me on the spot with a host of varied questions.

"I was explaining what sailing in ice was like and the fact that ice can capsize a ship. The next question was whether I had been on a ship when it capsized. Fortunately not!

"The best part of the visit was when a young gentleman (from P5) saw the picture of the Waverley and announced the funnels looked like Santa's legs hanging out of the chimney.

"I'm still laughing now."

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: "Thank you for visiting, Tom, and well done to the teachers and everyone involved in the other inspiring employability visits at Dalry Primary this week."