Deeping St Nicholas Primary School pupils enjoy visit from 99-year-old professor - who attended the school in the 1920s and 30s

After being told he would die aged 19 when his naval boat got blown up, a 99-year-old professor certainly had some incredible stories to share with his former primary school.

Professor Fredrick Rix (99) took a trip down memory lane when he was given an opportunity to visit Deeping St Nicholas Primary School, which he left in 1937 after being a pupil there for ten years.

The school was contacted by a visitor who happened to get talking to the mathematics professor when doing some work at his home. They then arranged for him to look round and talk to some pupils.

Professor Rix, who now lives in Peterborough, left the children and teachers in awe of his life following his visit.

Teacher Helen Sandalls said: “What a character - I have never met anyone so articulate and clever!

“The children were enthralled by his stories and loved it all.”

While sharing stories of his younger years and what he went on to achieve, he offered some wise advice as he told the children: “I think you should learn something every day because there is so much to learn in life.”

During his visit to the school he brought all the children an old one penny coin to take home along with an Easter egg each and books for the school to enjoy.

When Professor Rix was a student at the primary school in the 1920s and 1930s he was awarded a medal for being best gardener. He kindly gave this back to Deeping St Nicholas Primary School - and teachers now plan to put in the front entrance of the school.

At the age of 16, Professor Rix ran away from home to find his own way in the world. He said: “I was very ambitious.”

He went on to serve in the Merchant Navy and during World War II in the Battle of the Atlantic at the age of 16.

He said: “The ships were being sunk left and right, you don’t see the danger when you’re that young.”

While training to be a naval officer in 1942, Professor Rix’s boat was targeted and blown up, he was 18 when this happened.

After undergoing five months in hospital, nurses sent Fredrick home to die and told him there was nothing more they could do. He disagreed and knew he had many more years left in him - and went on to defy this prognosis, studying accountancy and owning a practice.

He took A levels, trained in a bank and studied economics which led to him becoming a member of the Economic Society.

He began his teaching journey in London and was later given his professorship after being head-hunted by a university.

During his carer he lectured in America and Kenya.

Shortly after retiring the professor and his wife travelled across the world to Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, Hollywood, Europe, Panama South America and many more.

When asked if there was a secret to living a long and happy life, Professor Rix said: “The secret is hard work - keep working, don’t retire, just keep working!”

He added: “Since I was 16 and left home, I have had the most wonderful life, I’ve seen wonderful things and been to wonderful places and met wonderful people.”

Professor Rix will celebrate his 100th birthday in August later this year.