PUPILS at a Keighley school were invited to try something new – a sport specially designed for people with visual impairments.

The students from University Academy Keighley (UAK) took part in a session of Goalball, which is a Paralympic team sport.

Participants compete in teams of three, and try to throw a ball that has bells embedded in it into the opponents' goal.

A UAK spokesman explained: "Eye shades worn by all players allow competitors who can see to play on an equal footing with those who are visually impaired.

"During the session at UAK our students and staff were given crucial tips on how to improve their technique and playing style.

"Students at the school with visual impairments say they've found the game very liberating and that playing it has given them an enormous confidence boost."

UAK specialist teaching assistant Esta Bernardini, said: “It’s been really inspiring for our visually impaired students to realise they can achieve things in sport and can play equally alongside sighted friends.

"It’s totally inclusive so everyone can join in. We're hoping to progress our Goalball team and will look into the possibility of a more structured league.

"We've been told there's already real talent amongst our players. Some have been invited to the Goalball UK Talent Camp, hosted by the Royal National College for the Blind, in Hereford. I couldn’t be more proud of their efforts.”

The UAK Goalball session was delivered by Stephen Newey, national schools officer for Goalball UK.