A SPECIAL school is preparing to hold a competitive event against a mainstream school for the first time.

Nortonthorpe Hall School at Scissett, which caters for children with behavioural and emotional difficulties,

will play football against Helme C of E Junior and Infant School.

The match, on Monday, July 11, will be the culmination of a soccer skills course which Key Stage 2 pupils at Nortonthorpe Hall School have been taking part in.

Andrew Kitterick, the school's learning mentor, said it would be an historic day.

He added: "It is a really big step.

"The kids are looking forward to it. They can't wait.

"If this game is successful, we are hoping to have more games."

Pupils from Northonthorpe Hall also have a new kit, sponsored by Scissett hairdressing salon Ruffles, which is owned by Mick Kemp.