SPECIAL education needs units across the Island have been taking part in kwik cricket sessions.

Manx Sport and Recreation and the Island's cricket development officer have worked with primary school children who have special needs to help develop their skills in batting, fielding and bowling.

This has been done in conjunction with the ASDA kwik cricket bronze award scheme and children have achieved a certificate and badge for taking part.

More than 50 children took part in the sessions which were held at Arbory, Ashley Hill, Scoill Phurt le Moirrey, Ree Gorree, Ballacottier and St Johns.

Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney MHK said: "This new initiative is a great way for children to develop key fundamental skills that can be nurtured and developed over time.

"With the support of the Island's cricket development officer children have been given the opportunity to take part in cricketing activities that cater for a wide range of abilities and needs.

"These new activities will help develop and enhance the inclusion of children with disabilities to take part in physical activity."

The weekly kwik cricket sessions have been supported by Barclays Wealth and the Isle of Man Cricket Association. All six units involved in the initiative have now applied to the Lord Taverner's Charity to receive free equipment so they can continue with the game.  

Kwik cricket is part of the yearly Disability Sports Programme which is being rolled out through all the special education needs units across the Island.