THREE primary schools are celebrating after being handed £1.25million to provide new sports and arts facilities.

The cash is part of a £130 million boost for 300 junior and infant schools in England, announced by Education Secretary Estelle Morris and Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell.

It is aimed at enabling primary schools to develop much-needed new or modernised sports and arts facilities to be used by communities as well as pupils. And the money has been targeted at areas of greatest need.

The projects will provide new sports halls at Audley and St Michael and St John Primary Schools in Blackburn while at Wensley Fold in Manor Road an old two-storey stable block -- all that remains of the manorial estate which one flourished there -- will be transformed .

Headteacher of Audley Primary School David Whalley said: "At the moment our sports facilities are very limited.

"The school has a grass playing area which is flooded for most of the year and a tarmac playground which is very steep -- so that's why we were targeted for the grant.

"We needed the resources because we are trying to build links and become a focal point for the local community. It will make a fantastic difference."

Gaynor Stubbs, headteacher at Wensley Fold, added: "The stable block needs a lot of work, but it will bring tremendous benefits. There will be indoor five-a-side football facilities and room for drama productions and meetings, with a lift to the first floor."

Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson said: "As a former Culture Minister I am delighted by these grants. Sport and the arts are a vital part of educating children and what is developed at primary school can become a lifelong recreation.

"I'm also pleased that local adults will be able to use the facilities so we get maximum use and value.''