Children at Derry Hill School have learned about the struggles disabled sports stars face when they compete.

Paralympic skier Talan Skeels-Piggins had them enthralled when he talked about his experiences, after launching the Derry Hill sports week.

The pupils discovered how tough it can been for disabled sportspeople when they had to play tennis with their ‘wrong’ arms and took part in three-legged races.

“The talk was really inspiring, the students sat in silence while Talan spoke,” said Louise Pimm, head of physical education.

“They were in complete awe as he talked about the difficulties he’d had and the ways he overcame them.”

“The children built up a real appreciation of the limitations that come with having a disability and we were able to raise £400 in the process”

All the money raised will go to the Team GB paralympic skiers.

During the week, clubs and societies from the area visited the school to encourage the students to get involved in their community.

“We had people come in from Derry Football Club and the Tae kwon do club,” said Mrs Pimm.

“It takes a lot of teamwork and organisation to get this sort of event off the ground but when it all comes together like that it is just brilliant.”

During the week the children played football and touch-rugby and were given the chance to test their potential as golfers at Bowood House.