David Cameron's moving speech on visit to Ivan’s old school

Samantha Cameron wiped away a tear today as her husband made an emotional speech during a visit to their late son Ivan's old school in Shepherd's Bush.

The Prime Minister spoke movingly about his son, who died aged six in February last year, as he and his wife opened a hydrotherapy pool at the Jack Tizard school in White City.

Ivan, who had a rare combination of cerebral palsy and severe epilepsy, spent two years at the school which specialises in helping children with disabilities.

Mr Cameron said in his speech: "These special schools play such an important role and I know that so many parents are incredibly grateful for the work that they do. When Ivan was here Jack Tizard was such a huge support and I am delighted to be here on such a special day."

Mrs Cameron's tears flowed when her husband told the gathering of parents and staff: "I remember how much he loved swimming and he will be looking down at that pool thinking I wish I was in there today'." The Prime Minister held his wife's hand tightly during the rest of the visit.

"You have a child, a special child like we did with Ivan, you worry like mad you are never going to find somewhere where he is happy, where there is great teaching, where there is love and great compassion," Mr Cameron went on. "And when you find that place like we did with Jack Tizard, your heart lifts."

The Prime Minister also looked emotional as the couple listened to a speech by head teacher Cathy Welsh. Mr Cameron revealed a year ago that the death of Ivan made him reconsider his career.

The hydrotherapy pool will provide physiotherapy and recreation for children who cannot use a mainstream pool.