AN MP has welcomed the continuation of a Government fund which helps regenerate seaside towns, but says more money must be made available.

Redcar MP Anna Turley acknowledged the town had benefitted from the Coastal Communities Fund, the first phase of funding from which has now ended.

But she said more aid was needed.

Ms Turley said the scheme had already borne dividends in funding initiatives like environmental improvements in the Coatham area, such as the refurbishment of a boating lake, and in developing skills and volunteering opportunities.

She said: “The extension of the scheme should now help tremendously with a big venture - the creation of a £1m catering academy set in the Kirkleatham Hall Estate.

"However, this will not be funded by the Coastal Communities fund alone, as it will almost certainly need start up resources from areas like Further Education funding and European funding - and both of these are at risk with the cash squeeze on post 16 college funding and the continuing threat to quit Europe.

“It is crucial the Government recognise the joined up nature of regeneration for towns like Redcar."