RIBBLE Valley Conservative MP Nigel Evans has welcomed a government cash boost for education worth £234million across the North-West.

He said it meant schools in Lancashire will receive 4.34 per cent more funding per pupil next year as part of the recent multi-billion investment in primary and secondary education.

Mr Evans said this ensured that every secondary school pupil will receive a minimum of £5,000 next year and every primary school pupil will receive a minimum of £4,000 by 2021/22.

The new figures stem from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's announcement in August that the budget for schools would be increased by a £14 billion over three years.

Mr Evans said: "Every child deserves the best possible start in life – regardless of their background or where they live.

"The 4.34 per cent per pupil funding boost next year will mean that every school in Lancashire will receive a budget increase, giving teachers, parents and pupils the certainty to plan.

"This new funding will also target those schools who need support the most need, making sure that every parent in the Ribble Valley, and Lancashire as a whole, can be sure their children are getting a world class education."