CHILDREN in East Lancashire will benefit from a better start in life thanks to government funding of almost £200 million.

A multi-million pot of cash will be used to for projects over the next four years, aimed at youngsters in Burnley, Blackburn and Darwen. The schemes will support the physical, intellectual and emotional development of very young children.

It will fund work with their parents and provide help with play, learning, health services, childcare and family support.

Local authorities and other groups will be able to apply to Central Government for money for projects after drawing up a plan to show how they intend to used the money.

The programme will work locally to improve the health and well- being of children under four, as well as that of their families.

It aims to help tackle poverty by providing services such as, playgroups, computer workshops, breast feeding classes and reading libraries.

Public Health Minister Yvette Cooper unveiled the programme and said: "We need to make sure every child gets the best start in life. Too often in the past services did not reach those who needed them most and young families in low income areas have missed out.

"Sure Start is already making a real difference in helping break the cycle that keeps people trapped in poverty.

"Each month Sure Start is reaching 6,000 children who haven't been contacted before."

Education and Skills Secretary Estelle Morris added: "As Sure Start goes from strength to strength we are committed to providing significant investment to ensure that children in disadvantaged areas get the best start in life."