PUPILS from Barlby Primary School were rewarded for their recent success with a chance to train alongside their York City favourites.

The school won through regional qualifiers to represent the North of England at the English Schools Football Association (ESFA) Danone Cup and, while, they were denied further glory at the national tournament, their performances have not gone unnoticed by Minstermen chief Nigel Worthington.

Former Premier League and international boss Worthington offered the team hints and tips prior to their quest for Danone Cup honours and, on their return, arranged for the squad to visit City's Wigginton Road training base to see the players put through their paces and learn about the commitment needed to become a professional player.

The children, who were accompanied by coaches Tom Richardson and Alex Bilby along with school business manager Michelle Hall, watched various coaching routines and even took selfies with the players.

On the team's achievements and visit, Worthington said: "Getting to a national final is a terrific effort and just reward for all involved. Grassroots football is so important and we were delighted to help before the game and to give a little bit back with the visit afterwards.

"This club is all about community, so it was great to see a local team do so well."