BURY Council is celebrating after it was awarded a share of a £40 million funding pot.

Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service is set to receive £244,256 of National Lottery funding as part of a Sport England campaign to encourage families to get active together.

The cash will be used to recruit a full time Families Active Together development officer who will work with SCIL Team family co-ordinators to ensure families are meeting Chief Medical Office exercise guidelines.

The Sport England campaign follows the revelation that four out of five primary school children do not get their recommended 60 minutes daily exercise — especially those from low income families.

By creating enjoyable experiences the government body is hoping children will develop a lasting positive attitude to exercise at an early age.

They are also highlighting the importance of shared experiences with parents, who also act as role models.

At the same time the projects will build adults' confidence and skills around getting active, and provide enjoyable, convenient and low cost experiences.

Jayne Molyneux, Sport England's director of children and young people, said: "It’s not right that four in five children don’t get enough exercise and are missing out on the health benefits it brings.

"Just by seeing their parents being active, children can be inspired to do the same, and if they have an enjoyable experience they’re far more likely to continue as an adult.

"Parents have many demands on their time, and often lack the confidence to get active with their children.

"That’s why Sport England is working hard to make getting active with your children an easy choice."

The new funding fits into the wider local authority Wellness Model for Bury which aims for people to "Start Well, Live Well and Age Well".

Launched last year the scheme wants to increase participation in physical activity and empowering residents to take responsibility for their wellbeing.

Ms Molyneux said: "With this new National Lottery funding, Bury Council will be able to tackle the challenges that families may face to be more active and develop an understanding of the motivations for families to engage in regular physical activity and sport.

"The project will also look to provide convenient, free/ low cost activities in nearby spaces supported by community champions."