AN outdoor adventure centre has received a welcome cash boost from the Big Lottery Fund.

The £53,000 grant will pay for improved shower and toilet facilities with better disabled access at the Stainsacre Hall Residential Education and Activity Centre, near Whitby.

Youngsters from across Teesside use the centre to take part in orienteering, team building and problem solving.

Middlesbrough Council's executive member for education and skills, Coun Paul Thompson, said: "This is excellent news for the many youngsters who use the centre. "We will now be able to cater for more groups, including those with special needs.

"It will make a real difference."

Emma Snowdon, Big Lottery Fund regional officer, said: "This funding is great news for Middlesbrough schools and will be a real boost to the facilities they can offer their pupils."