ACTOR Ralf Little admits he is never one to resist a challenge.

The star visited Bolton School just days after an online argument with the health secretary which saw his name hit the headlines.

As he awaited a response on whether Jeremy Hunt would be prepared to talk face to face, the Royle Family star spent the day chatting to pupils.

He said: “I never intended to be at the centre of the debate. He told me his figures were correct and dared me to prove otherwise.

“I am never one to resist a challenge.

“I have asked Mr Hunt to meet with me and I have asked again. I am waiting but he’s not got back to me yet. I await with interest to see if he does.”

Ralf – who started medical school before going into acting – accused Mr Hunt on Twitter of lying about NHS Mental health improvements in an appearance on The Andrew Marr Show.

The secretary responded with employment and treatment figures, challenging the Bolton School old boy to prove him wrong.

In response Ralf sent a series of tweets questioning the statistics before both agreed they should meet – though that has yet to transpire.

In the meantime, Ralf has been sharing his tips with Bolton students on how to juggle the demand of school life.

A pupil in the Boys’ Division from 1988 to 1998, he had just started at Manchester Medical School when the offer to join the Royle Family sitcom took him on a different path.

In his first proper visit since leaving nearly 20 years ago, he met with medical students to talk about balancing education with hobbies like arts and sport.

The once semi-professional footballer also led a series of drama lessons – where he praised the students for their work – coached some badminton and gave this year’s Tillotson Lecture.

He added: “When I told my mum about today she said they are getting their moneys worth – which is a very typical mum thing to say!

“It is an extraordinary school.”

Boys’ Division headmaster Philip Britton added: “It has been a pleasure to welcome Ralf back to Bolton School.

“He has spoken highly of the school during the day and has both advised and inspired our current crop of elite performers and actors.

“I am always indebted to alumni that return to the school as it reinforces in boys a belief that, providing one does the work, anything is possible in life.”