SCHOOLCHILDREN enjoyed a visit from Darlington Football Club player Matt Clarke yesterday.

The centre-half dropped in to Heathfield Primary School, in Darlington, to hand out signed footballs and thank children who had raised money for Football in the Community (FITC), a charity that supports grassroots football.

The pupils had taken part in a sponsored penalty shoot out with Darlington mascot, Mr Q.

The contest raised £1,500, which will be split between FITC and the school.

Children who had raised more than £20 were presented with a signed football. And James Jemmeson, who raised £70 - the highest total in the school, was presented with a signed shirt.

Heathfield headteacher David Hayllar, said: "It really made the kids' day."