TWO special schools in York are appealing for former students and staff to get in contact before they close this year.

Lidgett Grove School and Galtres School will close this summer as part of City of York's plan to reorganise special school provision.

Lidgett Grove School is holding an open day on Wednesday, June 23, from 10am to 11.30 and 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Students and staff are invited back to sign the visitors book and bring photographs of the school.

Current students will be putting on a programme of entertainment including dance, musical performances.

Galtres School is trying to contact everyone who has had anything to do with the school over the last 20 years including parents, teacher, governors and pupils.

They are invited to an open day on July 10, from 1pm to 5pm.

The closure of the two schools along with Northfield and Fulford Cross will make way for two new schools in the city.

Applefields School, in Burnholme, is to be the city's new secondary school for children with special needs and Hob Moor Oaks, in Acomb, will provide education for primary school children with special needs.

Updated: 08:35 Wednesday, May 26, 2004