ALMOST 50 schools in the region are to benefit from a Government bid to improve arts and sports facilities.

The Space for Sport and the Arts scheme will see about £130m being spent across the country.

Local education authorities were invited to submit applications to the Department for Education and Employment for the funding, which is aimed at opening up opportunities for youngsters.

Schools in a number of areas in the region, such as Middlesbrough, Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland, are now set to benefit.

Sports Minister Kate Hoey said: "The space for sport and arts programme will make a real difference to the lives of the children who attend the schools chosen and also their local communities."