AN internet docu-soap series about a group of housemates with learning disabilities is starting today.

The Specials tells the story of five people with Down's syndrome who live together at a house in Cissbury Road, Hove.

People will be able to keep up with the goings on in the house by watching weekly ten minute episodes on a specially created website.

The group, who are all aged between 19 and 23, live independent lives and work or study in the city.

They have 24 hour back-up care and support in the house but staff aim to keep as much in the background as possible and leave the quintet to get on with things.

TV producer and director Katy Lock followed Lucy Hatfield, Lewis Carr, Sam Powell, Hilly German and Megan Kenward around for several weeks earlier this year to film the programme.

She said: “They were a terrific bunch of people and very open and welcoming. We had a great time and we're delighted with the results.

“We think people are going to enjoy watching all that goes on.”

The stars were filmed at college, work, at the pub, on dates and on a holiday to Malta.

Carol Williams, who owns the house with her husband Dafydd, said the group had thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

She said: “There were all sorts of things going on. There were all the usual arguments and dramas you would expect with any group of housemates and the programme has been following that.”

The house was set up by the Williams to offer people with learning disabilities the opportunity to step away from a traditional care home setting or staying with their parents so they can lead their own independent lives.

It is one of only a few of its kind in the country and the couple are planning to open a second one in the city later this year.

Residents get to do whatever they want to do which includes having nights out and going off to see friends and family.

Each person pays rent, has their own room and shares the kitchen, living room and two bathrooms.

To see the programme go to www.the-specials.com.