Some 20 schemes on Tyneside, Teesside, Wearside and County Durham will get cash to increase community involvement in sport.

The Big Lottery Fund and Sport England say the awards will encourage innovative community sports projects.

The largest grant of �1.8m goes to a project backed by Gateshead Council for an indoor athletics facility.

Other awards include a �642,000 grant for Hartlepool Borough Council towards a �2m project to construct a four court sports hall adjacent to Headland Borough Hall.

It will give local people the chance to get fit and stay fit, and will bring long term benefits for their health and well being Sir Clive Booth Chair of the Big Lottery Fund

A �660,000 grant to North Tyneside Council to enhance recreational facilities at the rebuilt Burradon Primary School.

More than �154,000 is going to Sedgefield Borough Council for the employment of a development worker to carry out research around obesity issues in 11 to 16-year-old girls.

More than �750,000 will be used by Sunderland City Council to create a wellness centre at a neighbourhood housing office.

Judith Rasmussen, regional director of Sport England North East, said: "The aim is to contribute to the health and well being of all sections of society, but in particular by increasing participation in those sections that typically do not take part in sport and physical activity.

'Long term benefits'

"We are delighted to be able to announce, along with our colleagues at the Big Lottery Fund, this latest investment in the North East region."

Sir Clive Booth, chair of the Big Lottery Fund, said: "This enhanced sporting provision will be at the heart of our local communities.

"It will give local people the chance to get fit and stay fit, and will bring long term benefits for their health and well being.

"This funding will create and improve facilities by providing new equipment and extending opportunities to get involved in a wide range of sports and physical activities so there really will be something on offer for everyone."