A youngster has inspired his young classmates on a course of learning that has left parents and teachers spellbound.

Seven-year-old Rory, who has Down's syndrome and speech problems, has helped popularise sign language at his primary school - and now every single classmate can sign.

When Rory joined Holy Cross Primary School in Belmont Road, Uckfield, other classmates were curious at how he took his lessons in another part of the classroom using sign language.

They wanted to learn Makaton sign language, which is used for children with learning difficulties.

Within eight weeks all 28 of Rory's friends at Holy Cross had picked up signing from using nursery rhymes.

Now they can hold full-length conversations with Rory, who lives in Uckfield.

Progress among the children astounded teachers and parents who said the children were even prepared to give up their own time to learn the skill in after-school sessions.

Rory and his class united to showcase their skills when they appeared alongside each other to perform Silent Night as part of the school's Christmas production.

After-school signing lessons are taught by Sue Willmott, Rory's personal tutor.

She said: "When Rory first arrived, it was just he and I, with me teaching him his subjects.

"But suddenly the other children became intrigued by this new form of communicating and wanted to take part as well.

"They all wanted Rory to be a part of everything and for him to gain the full benefits the school offers.

"If I make a mistake they are the ones who pull me up on it. It just goes to show how much they enjoy doing sign language."

Rory and his classmates will sign a performance of Shine Jesus Shine at Holy Cross Church in February.

Head teacher Andrew Raven said: "The children enjoy signing immensely as it gives them a sense of togetherness when they are all signing.

"It's very physical and practical and also quite a challenge for the children, who get a sense of success out of it."