CHILDREN at a Darlington school raised more than £1,000 in a sponsored penalty shoot-out competition.

As part of Darlington FC's football in the community scheme, St John's Primary School took part in a training course organised by the club.

the children held the sponsored event at the end of the session - and became only the second school in Darlington, Newton Aycliffe or Bishop Auckland to top the £1,000 mark.

Darlington player Brian Atkinson visited the school yesterday to present the children with prizes.

Every pupil who raised £20 or more received a signed Darlington football, and everyone who took part received a certificate.

Year three pupil Jade Park was presented with a trophy for winning the shoot-out and Daniel Coop won an autographed Darlington shirt for raising the most money.

Headteacher Christine Large said: "It was an excellent morning. A lot of our children have footballers as heroes and role models, and we like to ask people from the community to come and tell them about their jobs.

"Brian was emphasising that a lot of people want to be footballers and only a small amount get to where he is, and even less get to where David Beckham is."

Any school that wants to take part in the scheme is asked to contact Kevin Stonehouse, on (01325) 381972.