PRIMARY and secondary schools in Teesside were celebrating yesterday after receiving their share of a multi-million cash injection to improve sport and PE facilities.

Schools in Hartlepool, Redcar and Stockton have received part of £17m funding distributed across England by the National Lottery's New Opportunities Fund.

In Stockton, a grant of £346,750 will go to Blakeston Community School to create a new dance studio, fitness suite and covered link between the school's sports hall and changing rooms, which will be upgraded.

Kevin McAuley, head of leisure services at Stockton Borough Council, said: "We are delighted with today's grant announcement.

"Blakeston is a school with wonderful ambitions in terms of improving the sporting opportunities for children who attend the school, as well as for the local community."

Thornaby Community School and St Patrick's School, in Thornaby, will receive £665,000 for a full-sized synthetic turf pitch and £342,000 will go to Egglescliffe School for an outdoor synthetic turf sports area and new changing rooms.

Among the beneficiaries in east Cleveland was Whitecliffe Primary School, at Carlin How, near Saltburn, which received £85,000 for a multi-use game area.

Headteacher Gill Steelesaid: "It is very good news. The money will be spent on a multi-use games area which will be shared with the local community in the village, although the primary use will be for the school.

"At the moment we have a tiny mole ridden field and a yard so it will be a huge improvement. We are really looking forward to it."

Baroness Jill Pitkeathley, chairwoman of the New Opportunities Fund, said: "By widening access to quality sports facilities, the New Opportunities Fund is giving children, young people and communities the opportunity to choose a healthier lifestyle, boosting self-esteem and confidence, and building a positive outlook and sense of achievement."

Other schools to receive awards were Ward Jackson Primary School, Hartlepool (£24,735), Grange Primary School, Hartlepool (£25,579), Clavering Primary School, Hartlepool (£47,000), Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council (£81,048), Highcliffe Primary School, Guisborough (£7,000), Eston Park School, Eston (£36,000).