Legendary football manager Bill Shankly may have had his tongue in his cheek when he said the game isn't a matter of life and death - it's more important than that.

But for a group of youngsters in Bradford, it's made a huge difference to their existence.

The members of Bradford Disability Football Club all have either physical disabilities or learning difficulties but, for the last year, they have worked hard every Sunday morning learning life skills as well as how to bend it like Beckham.

Now, though, the club - like all its professional counterparts - is in need of financial help.

"It's gone from strength to strength," said Paul Squires, one of the organisers whose 18-year-old son Alexander has learning difficulties.

"Numbers have doubled in the first year and we now have 14 or 15 people aged from eight to 21 turning up on Sundays."

The club is led by Bradford City's Paul Jubb and Mo Tariq, both professional FA coaches.

It's the first time City have been involved in coaching disabled youngsters but the scheme is mushrooming and the pair are now visiting special schools.

Ian Ormondroyd, of Bradford City in the Community, said: "Paul and Mo are really enjoying it. They have seen the benefit to the young people and know that the sessions are something they otherwise wouldn't have."

Club members now have their own kit, which has made a big difference to their pride.

Paul Squires said: "They were so excited to get the red, white and blue training tops. They made them feel like members of a real football club and boosted their confidence.

"The sessions have been so good for them in other ways, as well as teaching them football and the coordination that brings. They have developed their social skills, too."

The sessions, between 10am and 11am on Sundays at the new indoor sports hall at Beckfoot School, cost £2.

New sessions have also begun for children with hearing problems at Nab Wood.

The club is now looking for financial help to see it through its second year and Paul hopes to find a kit sponsor.

He is also looking for help with travel costs as the boys may soon be playing their first "away fixture".

"There's a similar scheme at Thorne, near Doncaster, and we're looking to visit and maybe play them at five-a-side," he said.

"We hope someone comes forward with sponsorship because it would be a shame to see it fall by the wayside. It's a big thing in the youngsters' lives."

Paul said: "If anyone wants to come along on a Sunday, it's a friendly and safe atmosphere."

Paul can be reached on (01274) 590387.