A student says he was thrilled to meet President Obama during his three-day visit to the UK.

Seventeen-year-old Ibrahim Butt from Blackburn joined his peers to meet the US President at a town hall event in London.

The youth event was arranged for the students through the Sutton Trust Fulbright commission.

Ibrahim, who is completing his A-levels at Cardinal Newman College has won a place and a financial aid package to study at Duke University after participating in the Sutton Trust’s US Programme run in partnership with the US-UK Fulbright Commission.

Speaking at the event, President Obama spoke to the students about the importance of perseverance and hard work.

"If any of you begin to work on an issue that you care deeply about, don't be disappointed if a year out things haven't been completely solved.

"Don't give up and succumb to cynicism if after five years poverty has not been eradicated and prejudice is still out there somewhere and we haven't resolved all of the steps we need to take to reverse climate change."

Obama added that progress is "not inevitable" but must be fought for over the long term.

Ibrahim said, "Meeting President Obama the leader of the free world was an incredible honour.

"Hearing his insights into how even a single person can influence the world was inspiring.

"Near the end of his 8 years of presidency he will be remembered as a great leader who values the contribution of young people around the world."