YOUNGSTERS with disabilities are being given a sporting chance following a donation from the Football Foundation of more than £300,000.

Moor Park, close to Preston North End's Deepdale stadium, is set to benefit from a grant of £312,200 for disabled and women's changing facilities.

The existing six pitches will also be renovated as well as the resurfacing of one training area for wheelchair access.

More women and disabled players will now be able to enjoy sport, including 15-year-old Vicky Harrison, of Mitton Drive, Ribbleton, who is paralysed in her legs.

Vicky, a pupil at Moorfield special school, can't wait to play football on the new pitch. The David Beckham fan, who relies on a wheelchair to get around, said: "I like Manchester United and really like playing hockey. I think this pitch sounds good and girls should be able to play."

Vicky has physiotherapy every day at school and plays hockey for the school team. When she was younger she had regular treatment and was encouraged to walk in splints to strengthen her legs. Now she is hoping to score a few goals in a four-a-side team on Moor Park.

Stephen Daley, disability sports officer for the council, is also delighted. Working as part of the sports development team he is keen to provide leisure activities for both disabled and mainstream children.

Stephen, who is partially sighted, is hoping Moor Park will become centre of excellence for disabled players countywide.

He said: "These children need more support. We have done a lot of research asking youngsters with disabilities what they want and asking clubs to provide for them.

"It's about delivering now and this is a great boost. The resurfacing of the pitch will mean we can set up a team for disabled players"