'RUUDMANIA' swept through a Stretford school this week.

Two hundred youngsters in the assembly hall at St Ann's RC Primary School erupted when Manchester United superstar Ruud van Nistelrooy strode in to take part in a question and answer session.

Along with the cheers there were cries of "Ruud, Ruud" from the excited seven to 11-year-olds.

The prolific United striker called into the school to present a £10,000 cheque to Stretford Victoria Football Club, as well as meet the children. The cash was a contribution from United towards Vics' target of raising £100,000 for a clubhouse and training facilities at its base on Turn Moss playing fields. The cash came to United from the Football Association's Fairplay awards.

The improvements at Turn Moss will cost half a million pounds, but Vics hope that £400,000 of the cost will be covered by a grant from the Football Foundation.

Dave Parker, Stretford Vics' commercial manager and under nine and under 13 manager, and Peter Briody, the under 10s coach, collected the cheque from Ruud.

Dave said that as well as a clubhouse the club needs a floodlit all-weather pitch to train on.

"This donation from United will really kick the appeal off. We have always had a good relationship with United and we would like to thank them for their help."

Stretford Vics is one of four designated community clubs in Trafford.

St Ann's headteacher, John O'Brien, said: "We are really excited Ruud has come here. He is a great role model for the children."