The Big Lottery Fund's Children's Play grant has been hailed as "the best news for young people in Arun for a long time" by district council leader Gill Brown.

It will pay for new play equipment and facilities through a programme, Big Play in Arun, targeted at areas of need, with the aim of benefiting 2,550 children and young people, including those with physical, learning or behavioural disabilities.

"We are absolutely ecstatic to receive this kind of funding from the Lottery to help improve the lives of young people in our area," said Mrs Brown. "This is an extremely exciting time for youngsters here as this money will allow us to offer even more fun and security when it comes to play time.

"It won't be long before children and parents begin to reap the benefits of this new funding, which will be put towards carefully planned projects designed to transform our local play provision."

Other initiatives to be funded over the next three years include the provision of play rangers to raise awareness of the new play spaces and provide supervision and guidance to help youngsters enjoy safe and stimulating play. Free Oscar Out and About sessions will be provided during school holidays, to provide fun, challenging activities for children.