PUPILS at one County Durham school got the chance to celebrate Sport Relief like no other after Skyping an England footballer.

Excited children at St Michael's CofE Primary School, in Bishop Middleham, were treated to the call from Steph Houghton MBE as part of their special assembly on Thursday.

The 29-year-old, who is captain of both Manchester City and the England women's team, answered some of the children's burning questions including how many awards she had and what is the hardest thing about being a footballer.

The centre back, who began her career at Sunderland AFC, told pupils how she started playing football aged just four or five with her dad and at primary school.

She also revealed how David Beckham was her hero and that moving away from home to pursue her passion and suffering injuries were the hardest things about her job.

She also wished the Year 6 pupils good luck in their upcoming SATs exams and also promised to visit soon.

Members of the school's Youth Parliament also put together a presentation about Sport Relief, as the school celebrated the day early and came into school in their own sportswear.

Headteacher, Lindsay Vollans, said: "I'm really proud of the work the staff and children have done to put this all together."

The children enjoyed a day activities organised by staff including sports coordinator, James Paley and teacher, Stuart Houghton.

Mr Houghton, who is also Ms Houghton's brother, said the children had watched a documentary about his sister the day before and he was incredibly proud of her.

He said: "It's unbelievable to be her brother but she just does what she loves and works hard every day."

He added: "To see the children's faces and know she's inspired them is amazing."