The 33-year-old, renowned for his batting prowess, was accompanied by fellow internationals Matthew Hoggard and Paul Collingwood as they came to the Markyate school to open their new Pavilion in the glorious sunshine.

Headteacher at the school Patrick Atkinson said: "It's difficult to put into words.

"They knew Michael Vaughan was coming, but it wasn't until the actual opening that they saw Matthew Hoggard and Paul Collingwood.

"It was amazing for them be able to see in the flesh these cricketers who have they have only seen before on television representing their country. The children were so excited but were also very respectful.

"We were very lucky to have three such fine cricketers at our school."

After the opening of the pavilion, all three England stars took part in a nets session with the young cricketers, and even had time for a game of rounders.

The event capped a hat-trick of England captains to have visited the school—Mike Brearley having opened the old pavilion 30 years ago and David Gower unveiling the Sports Hall in 1985.

The new pavilion has changing rooms for both boys and girls, a referees' changing room and a hospitality area.

It was built using money donated by parents of pupils past and present.