A HEADTEACHER is thrilled to have been awarded a huge cash boost.

The work of sports clubs and groups across Allerdale are benefitting to the tune of more than £30,000 thanks to a new grant scheme from the borough council.

In the summer, organisations were invited to bid to the council for funding for projects that would make a significant difference to their members and users in the community.

Projects put forward must deliver at least two of the scheme’s priorities, which include creating new participation opportunities, improving resilience, improving economic/environmental sustainability of the organisation, improving access for those more likely to be less active and encouraging new participants into sport or physical activity through innovative ideas.

The first wave of funding has now been decided, with almost £34,000 given to community clubs for projects such as improvements to changing rooms, investing in new equipment and developing new biking facilities.

Colin Baty, of Silloth Football Club, said: “Our current changing rooms were built in 1982 and have only seen minor improvements since then. We are in desperate need in bringing them up to 21st century standards to also allow for an expanding junior section which has more than 100 children training and playing football for Silloth. Receiving this grant will massively help our cause.”

Richard Johnston, secretary of Thursby Sports & Recreation Committee, said: “This grant will really help us to sort a few things on site that we haven’t been able to fund ourselves. I’d like to thank Allerdale Borough Council and Sellafield Ltd for their support.”

Danny Gee, Head of School at Beacon Hill Community School in Aspatria, said: “I am thrilled to receive this generous donation towards our project.

"The money is much appreciated and will go a significant way towards realising the development of a landmark cycling facility for young people in west Cumbria.”