A GROUP of Durham schools has won £100,000 from the New Opportunities Fund to boost youngsters' computer skills and arts activities.

The money is going to Durham Gilesgate Sports College, which has formed a partnership with Gilesgate Primary School, St Hild's Church of England Primary School, St Joseph's Roman Catholic Primary School, Laurel Avenue Primary School and Kelloe Primary School.

The aim of the scheme is to give primary school pupils a head start in computing - Government money will pay for extra equipment.

Primary pupils and youngsters in their first years at the sports college will also be given the chance to take part in more music, drama and dance.

The scheme, which will entail some work out of school hours, is expected to start in October and be fully operational by December.

Three part-time staff will be taken on to give guidance on computers, and a part-time community arts officer will also be employed.

Durham Gilesgate Sports College head Mike Brett said: "The awarding of the funding will bring real benefits to many young people."