A GIFT from gamblers is odds-on to score highly with youngsters across Burnley and Padiham in the New Year.

Leisure chiefs at Burnley council have taken delivery of a present for playgrounds across the borough, in the form of a £282,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund.

The seasonal bonus will be added to £380,000 set aside by councillors to revamp swings, slides and roundabouts from Briercliffe to Lanehead, and from Padiham to Whitegate.

Coun Roger Frost, the borough council's leisure executive member, said: "This is a significant investment for the borough which will help provide much-improved play provision.

"Young people are important members of the community and it's essential that a range of facilities are provided to help keep them healthy, fit and engaged in fun and imaginative ways."

Consultation exercises are set to be launched with residents, over what they feel would be right for the play areas. Rakehead recreation ground, Lanehead play area, Whitegate play area, Padiham play area and the Queen Street recreation ground at Briercliffe are all earmarked for improvements.

The cash boost is part of a five-year improvements programme, mainly centring on outdoor play provisions.

As well as new equipment, safer woodchip flooring will be installed, alongside larger bins to keep the renovated playgrounds tidy.

Ian Sturzaker, the council's parks development manager, added: "In all cases the money will be used where it's needed most and where it will have the biggest impact."

Last week councillors agreed to spend £176,250 on improving Rakehead, £70,000 at Lanehead, and £52,875 on Padiham, Whitegate and Queen Street.

It is expected that improvement works will start in the new year and be completed in time for the summer.