PUPILS can at last swap their wellies for football boots following a £19,616 award from the Football Foundation, the UK's largest sports charity.

The cash boost for St Charles' RC Primary, Rishton, will allow the school to install a modern drainage system on their playing fields.

Many matches and PE lessons have had to be cancelled as the pitches cannot be fully used during winter months or periods of bad weather because of constant waterlogging. The new system will allow more football all year round, whatever the weather.

The award is part of the £30m commitment by the Foundation and the New Opportunities Fund to use National Lottery money for football facilities

The school's budget, Parent Teacher Association, Rishton United and the Area Council have all contributed to the £23,000 needed for the project.

As the school is part of the Lancashire Healthy School's Programme, it is keen to promote fitness, not only to it's pupils but also to the local community. The work should be starting as soon as possible.

Foundation Chief Executive Peter Lee welcomed the cash boost for schools: "Children deserve the opportunity to expand their potential, not necessarily to be the best, but simply to enjoy our nation's favourite game.

"This massive funding package will go a long way to ensuring the next generation of footballers have access to some of the most modern facilities the game has to offer.

"Sport, particularly football, can play a huge part in encouraging healthier lifestyles, enhancing personal development and acting as an aid for learning."