HUNDREDS of schoolkids signed up for a bid to break a world record.

The children from schools in Oldham and Bolton were among thousands across the country joining forces to smash the simultaneous sign language record.

More than 400 pupils from New Bridge Special School in Hollinwood and Queensbridge Primary in Farnworth sang and signed along to the song Sunshine in my Heart.

They were bidding to break the best held by 4,800 people in China. Communication charity Afasic said about 18,500 people around Britain signed in unison and they expect to claim the title when numbers are verified.

All 216 children and staff at Queensbridge Primary used a simple sign language called Signalong to accompany the song.

Police community support officers visited the school to oversee the record-breaking attempt - and even joined in.

Special needs assistant Cathryn Arthur said: "I spotted them trying the sign for sunshine - but that's because it's the easiest!"

The school practised for three weeks to get the signs right. Ms Arthur said: "This event was close to our hearts. We have a number of children with profound and multiple difficulties who may benefit from learning signs in the future.

"Many of our kids pick up signs in the classroom and the majority of teachers use them. Signing is great fun and the record-breaking attempt looked brilliant and happy."

New Bridge Special School practised for just half an hour before the event. But 192 pupils and staff successfully joined in and danced along to the signs.

New Schools Minister Sarah McCarthy-Fry dropped in - her first official visit in the new role.

New Bridge's deputy head Helen Langford said: "The atmosphere in our theatre was fantastic. We did a countdown and everyone started dancing, singing and signing. We can't wait to go into the Guinness Book of World Records."

The effort was part of a bid to raise awareness of children with communication difficulties.


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