LOTTERY cash is to boost a computer training scheme run as part of Sunderland AFC's community activities.

The club provides computer training facilities at its Stadium of Light ground, for visitors from schools and youth groups.

As part of the National Lottery-backed New Opportunities Fund, cash awards of £6.2m were announced for 46 UK schemes yesterday.

It includes a grant of £259,736 towards information technology opportunities at the Stadium of Light.

The project, led by the club in conjunction with Sunderland University, will bring an estimated 4,200 people into contact with information technology over a three-year period.

Sunderland AFC in the Community manager, Bob Oates, said: "The New Opportunities Fund award is a huge boost for what is already a thriving education project at Sunderland.

"Some 15,000 young people come through our classrooms at the Stadium of Light each year, and our own players are very enthusiastic about these activities. This award will help to develop what we offer, particularly in launching an adult learning programme."

The fund aims to help people who have little chance to benefit from training in information and communications technologies.