A SUMMER school scheme can go ahead with plans to expand, after winning a grant of £451,386.

The money has been made available under the New Opportunities Fund which was set up by the National Lottery.

Five projects across the North West will share £1.2million as part of the windfall, with one of the largest slices going to Blackburn with Darwen's summer school project.

About 70 schools in the borough are involved in the project and most of the new cash will go to special and primary schools. The aim is to get more children from disadvantaged areas involved in the pioneering project.

There also moves to expand and improve the study centre at Ewood Park and provide extra classes, including video making and conservation studies. Other projects which have won grants in the region are a new summer school at the University of Lancashire and an out-of-hours school project at Bolton's Woodside Senior School.

Chairman of the New Opportunities Fund Baroness Pitkeathley, said: "Most of the grant announcements we have made will bring together summer programmes of fun and learning, providing for a real focus for many children during the holidays, particularly those in disadvantaged communities."

Steve Munby, chair of the out-of-school hours partnership board, added: "The grant will allow Blackburn with Darwen to build upon the success of last year's summer slam event.

"It will also permit us not only to expand and develop provision for primary age pupils, but also ensure there are opportunities for all our young people, including those with special needs.

"It is an exciting opportunity to harness the young people's enthusiasm and commitment to learning."