PUPILS with special needs in Stockton could soon benefit from a Government cash boost to improve facilities in mainstream schools.

Stockton Borough Council has been awarded £703,000 over the next two years to fund projects to improve access for pupils with disabilities.

A grant of £223,000 has been allocated this year for community school improvements, with a further £63,000 for voluntary aided schools.

And next year an allocation of £417,000 has been approved to continue with additional school projects.

Mainstream schools will be invited to bid for a share of the money, which can be used for a range of measures including ramps, disabled access toilets and specialised ICT equipment.

Alison Stephenson, the council's assistant director of education, leisure and cultural services, said: "We are delighted to receive this funding as it will enable us to ensure there are better facilities for disabled pupils in more of our schools and also to ensure they gain maximum benefit from the wealth of educational opportunities available in schools."