CUMBRIAN MP Tim Farron has demanded the Government provide emergency financial support for outdoor education centres.

This comes after ministers told schools to no longer take their pupils on any overnight residential visits.

The Department for Education has issued new guidance on the Government’s website stating that they “continue to advise against domestic overnight educational visits”.

They also said that they will not review their advice until next February.

The former Liberal Democrats leader is now urging ministers to follow the Scottish Government in providing a £2m recovery fund for outdoor education centres.

According to trade body UK Outdoors, nearly 3,000 jobs have already been lost and many outdoor education facilities have permanently closed.

“This is a devastating blow for outdoor education centres in Cumbria and across the country," said Mr Farron.

“Millions of young people are missing out on these trips which are so beneficial for their confidence and mental health.

“My worry is by the time the Government does change its advice, many of these centres simply won’t be there anymore. That’s why I’m urging the UK Government to follow the Scottish Government and introduce a bespoke funding package for outdoor education centres.”