SPECIAL needs children went head-to-head with their teachers yesterday in a basketball play-off.

Youngsters from Kilton Thorpe School, in Brotton, east Cleveland, have been sharpening their skills and using basketball to learn academic subjects including English, maths and geography.

With the help of professional coach and former player James Thompson, the youngsters were able to show off their skills in front of a cheering crowd, which included Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's mayor, Councillor Peter Spencer.

After ending in a draw, a penalty shoot-out saw the youngsters take the match crown - leaving their teachers behind in second place.

Mr Thompson said: "It was absolutely brilliant - we had such a good response."

He has been working on similar projects for the past eight years after a car accident ended his playing and coaching career.

He said: "The impact of basketball on these children has been amazing.

"The most important thing I want to ensure is not only the development of the project but more importantly the continuation."

Chris Watson, head of PE and captain of the staff team, said: "We are very impressed with the sessions James is delivering. The children look up to him and listen to what he has to say."

A full match report can be found at the school's website www.game-time.co.uk