THE future looks bright in Skerton following a £1.8 million Government grant to help children get a good start in life.

The Sure Start Scheme will use the money over the next three years to help 789 children under the age of four.

The money has been targeted specifically at Skerton youngsters and their families and aims to improve their health, well-being and education.

The money has been welcomed by the community who were given the good news by their MP Geraldine Smith.

"I am really pleased that a substantial amount of funding is being provided by the Government to improve the health, education and well being of families and young children in Skerton," she said.

"I am particularly pleased to see new safer play areas being created at Ryelands House, Skerton Community Centre and improvements to the play area at Hamilton Drive. There will also be funds available for improvements to Skerton Community Centre and a new Sure Start building next to Ryelands House."

In a letter to Geraldine, Education Secretary, David Blunkett, called on local people to get involved with the Sure Start Scheme now the money was in place, including parents and Skerton residents.

There have already been proposals put forward during recent consultations, including holiday playscheme, a toy/book library, playgroups, park wardens, adult literacy classes and after school clubs.

Geraldine added: "It's great news that substantial funding has been awarded by the Government and it is essential that it is spent on projects that the local people want and need."