A Harpenden football club has hailed its first Inclusive Day as a "great success" and received a further boost after receiving county council cash.

Harpenden Colts FC held its first inclusive day on Sunday, March 15 and nine children aged between 5 and 18, all with different needs, took part in the football session.

The Blackhorse Lane club has been given £1,000 by Hertfordshire County Council.

Ian Holden, chairman of Harpenden Colts FC said: "It was a great success and even the rain could not dampen the spirits of the children involved.

"It got off to a great start with paralymic footballer, Dave Clarke, telling the children about his football experiences and wishing them well.

"We are delighted to get this inclusive programme off the ground. It is great to be able to bring football to all young children that wish to participate in sport."

The football club hopes the event will be first of a regular feature and will be holding another session at the Blackhorse Lane club on Sunday, March 29.

Mr Holden highlighted one comment by a parent. He said: "One parent summed up the day and what it meant to the children. ‘Charlie really enjoyed it and said he would definitely like to come along again.

"This is a real milestone for him as he has trouble understanding the social communication aspect of sports and is ignored, by his peers playing and therefore usually shies away from any sport."