Students at Haycliffe specialist sports college in Bradford were bowled over to receive the gift of a professional cricket lesson and match with top Yorkshire cricketer Matthew Hoggard.

Sixteen youngsters – who have special educational needs – were treated to the VIP coaching session by Bradford health care cash plan provider Sovereign Health Care, which won it in a charity auction.

Mr Hoggard, who lives in Baildon and plays for Yorkshire, said: “It was great fun. Cricket’s a fantastic team sport that breaks down barriers and keeps you fit.

“I enjoyed the chance to promote it, and the kids at Haycliffe seemed to have a pretty good time too.”

He donated the lesson to the Marie Curie Cancer Care Hospice Daffodil Ball auction.

The school has a number of excellent cricketers, including one who plays disability cricket for England.