TWO special schools are joining forces to send pupils to France on a skiing trip. Youngsters from Westlands School, in Stockton, and Beaumont Hill School, in Darlington, are planning to go skiing next month.

Teachers and pupils at the school have been raising money to fund the trip and they are now appealing for more donations.

Headteacher John Jefferson said: "Westlands is a special school for children with social and emotional problems plus learning difficulties.

"The majority of our pupils are socially disadvantaged, coming from extremely poor home environments.

"This skiing trip will be a tremendous opportunity for our youngsters, many of whom have never been outside their home town.

He added: "The experience of travelling and living abroad for the first time would be invaluable particularly as it may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

The cost of the trip is £350 a child and the schools are looking for people to sponsor individuals so they can go on the holiday.

Students from Darlington College of Technology will go with the youngsters who will organise entertainment and organise food for them.