TV STAR Rachel Riley paid a visit to Dudley to inspire students before helping out at a homeless fundraiser.

The Countdown star visited Dudley College yesterday (September 19) to speak to students about her love of maths and how to break in to STEM careers, before visiting a YMCA fundraiser.

Rachel, who has also competed in Strictly Come Dancing, had nothing but praise for the college, after meeting with students along with Dudley North MP Ian Austin.

She said on Twitter to her 650,000 followers: "Such an incredible college and great bunch of students, here's to the next generation of STEM superstars!"

Riley later helped out at a fundraiser for the YMCA Open Doors project at the Gather cafe in Priory Park to support homeless young people and was also given a tour of the town by the now-independent MP.

Ian Austin said: "I'm from Dudley, I love the place and I want local youngsters to have big ambitions and all the help, support and encouragement they need to fulfil them. Who better than a TV star like Rachel to inspire them about maths and science?"