TWO Leigh schools have landed a share in almost £1.5 million of lottery money to help build new all-weather sports pitches.

Westleigh High and Bedford High will get state-of-the-art, floodlit multi-use games areas, paid for by the New Opportunities Fund.

The School Sports scheme was developed by Leigh MP, Andy Burnham and it aims to give new sports facilities in boroughs that most need it. All weather pitches will benefit pupils and the wider community, who will also have access.

Mr Burnham said: "Labour is committed to getting more lottery money to Leigh and this welcome news is evidence of that.

"As well as no train station, Leigh must be the biggest town in the country without a floodlit astro-turf pitch! This puts that right.

"I hope the pitches will be used to provide organised activities for young people during evenings and weekends. One of the best ways of tackling loutish behaviour is to give more young people the chance to play organised sport."

Cllr Brian Wilson, cabinet member for lifelong learning, also welcomed the news: "The government recognises the vital importance of PE and sport to the healthy development of our children.

"The aim is to encourage a wider enjoyment of different sports, and we also want to get women and girls involved.

"In the next couple of years almost every part of our borough will see the benefit of this massive investment in community sport.

"It will widen access to quality sports facilities, giving young people and communities the chance to choose a healthier lifestyle."