TODDLERS in East Lancashire are set to benefit from a share of more than £3million investment for outdoor play equipment.

Lancashire County Council is using the money from a £13.5million pot given to it from the Government over three-year period.

The funding from the Department of Children, Schools and Families will provide financial help for nurseries, playgroups, pre-school groups and out-of-school clubs to comply with recent changes to childcare legislation.

And it has been decided that Earby Springfield Nursery, First Class Child Care at Barrow and St Joseph's Pre-School in Clitheroe will receive £20,000 while Sabden Primary School will be given a £10,000 investment.

The funding will allow bosses to install new outdoor play areas, many with natural or textured surfacing, and canopies to protect children from the elements – whatever the weather. There will also be disabled facilities and new toilets.

The cash is allocated under the Sure Start programme by a panel including senior representatives from Lancashire County Council, Jobcentre Plus and the health service.

County Councillor Susie Charles, cabinet member for children and schools, said: “Playing outdoors is a very important part of children's development and of course it's great fun, but it isn't always possible in Lancashire's weather.

“The new funding means that many more early years and childcare settings will be able to provide all-weather outdoor play.

“We’ve targeted the grants into the areas where they will have the most benefit, so as many children as possible can now enjoy the high-quality facilities they deserve.”