PRIMARY schools in Basingstoke are set to benefit from more than £2million in funding for sports activities over the next six years.

Prime Minister David Cameron has committed to keeping the £150m a year Primary PE and Sport Premium fund until 2020.

The fund is part of the Government’s long-term economic plan, and is designed to secure the Olympic and Paralympic legacy.

Schools that have received funds use the money for a wide range of activities including hiring extra professional coaches and PE specialist teachers, purchasing new equipment and offering more after-school clubs, holiday and weekend activities.

Basingstoke MP Maria Miller welcomed the news, saying: “It is great news for young people in Basingstoke that this Government has committed £150m a year to securing the Olympic and Paralympic legacy in our primary schools.”

She added: “Sport is hugely important because it encourages children to be active, lead a healthy lifestyle and, of course, have fun.

“High-quality school sports have enormous benefits – it develops confidence and a sense of achievement, and teaches our children how to rise to a challenge, which will help them succeed in life.”