Mid Sussex District Council has joined up with the Brighton and Hove Albion to give youngsters with special needs the chance to join a new football scheme.

Every fortnight Oakmeeds Community School in Burgess Hill will give children with a range of problems including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, autism, and learning difficulties the opportunity of playing football.

The scheme is the third in Sussex run by the Brighton and Hove Albion Disability project in conjunction with local councils.

Teresa Sanders, who runs the project for the club, said: "What we are trying to do at the sessions is to enable any child who wants to play to take part at a standard that suits them. We are not trying to turn out budding footballers.

"They gain different things from it. Some use it to obtain more soccer skills, and others use it to improve their socialibity and mobility."

The sessions are from 10.30am-noon and cost £1.50 each.The youngsters can also take part in tournaments and fixtures and attend some Albion matches to watch the team chase promotion from the Third Division at Withdean.

Coun Mike Gilks, chairman of Mid Sussex Council's leisure services committee, said: "There should be sport for all, yet children with special needs often find it difficult to take part.

"We hope this new project will encourage them to get involved in sport, as well as meet new friends."

Contact the council for details on 01444 477370.