World's tallest man Sultan Kosen visits British school after competition win

Over 400 pupils from St. Michael's RC School in Twickenham couldn't believe their eyes when 8ft 3 Sultan Kosen, the tallest man in the world walked through their school door today. St Michael's school was the lucky winner of the 2012 prize offered by Guinness World Records educational programme, which includes class room resources and from September, a new Record Breaking Comprehension  series of books featuring the iconic record holder.

Sultan Kosen is a 29-year-old from Ankara, Turkey who measures a staggering 8ft 3 in (2.51 cm cm) who was officially awarded the title of tallest man in the world by Guinness World Records in 2009. This was his first visit to a UK school. He answered a lengthy Q & A session prepared by the children and teachers and posed with all the children for pictures and even autographs. He towered over the pupils as he is nearly 3 times the highest of the youngest children.   

Miss Ruth Foley, teacher for year six who entered the competition on behalf of her school, said: "This memorable experience will stay with us all for the rest of our lives - first having achieved a Guinness World Records title and then meeting the tallest man in the world".

"The children were all in absolute awe of Sultan, he is lovely, like a gentle giant. We would like to express our sincere thanks to Guinness World Records."

 

On such a warm welcome by all the children, Sultan said: "Some people don't know what to do when they meet me but everyone at St Michael's has been so friendly and warm". "I wanted to share with kids it's OK to be different'.

Sultan's appearance was part of the 2012 prize offered by Guinness World Records educational programme. Teachers and parents are welcomed to register for the programme and more information via the site.