Suffolk's worldwide superstar visited his former school to hand out awards and speak to those in attendance.

Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran returned to Thomas Mills High School in Framlingham on Thursday, December 8, for the school's annual Awards Evening.

Mr Sheeran had previously attended the school, having grown up in the Suffolk village.

East Anglian Daily Times: Ed Sheeran giving his speech with Mr Philip Hurst in backgroundEd Sheeran giving his speech with Mr Philip Hurst in background (Image: Thomas Mills High School/Adam Chittock)

Philip Hurst, headteacher at Thomas Mills, said: "We were delighted that Ed was able to join our Awards Evening and take time out from his busy schedule.

"He was a great guest with a genuine fondness for the school and what it seeks to achieve.

"Although we were all a little bit star-struck, he is so ordinary and put people at ease.

East Anglian Daily Times: Mr Sheeran handing out an award to a student at the schoolMr Sheeran handing out an award to a student at the school (Image: Thomas Mills High School/Adam Chittock)

"He is a great role model for our students, and his speech encouraged them to follow a career with what they love doing, whatever field that is."

Mr Adam Chittock, assistant headteacher at the school, said: "I think he just wanted to do it.

"It's just like any student coming back to his old school, he loved seeing his old teachers and familiar faces.

"It's just that this former student is an internationally renowned music star."

East Anglian Daily Times: Ed Sheeran at the Awards Evening at Thomas Mills High SchoolEd Sheeran at the Awards Evening at Thomas Mills High School (Image: Thomas Mills High School/Adam Chittock)