The county council-run Cumbria Outdoors project has successfully attracted the cash from the Big Lottery Fund.

The project aims to get more young people aged 12 to 16 to take part in sport and outdoor activities.

This latest award takes the total lottery funding raised by Cumbria Outdoors to �1.05m since 2000.

County councillor Joan Stocker, cabinet member for education with Cumbria County Council, said: "The county council understands the importance of providing outdoor educational opportunities to the young people of this county.

'Removes barriers'

"This is a great project to not only get young people to develop their physical skills but help them also improve their social skills.

"Youngsters benefit significantly from projects like these and this is just another example of the excellent service Cumbria Outdoors provides which is such an important part of the county's educational landscape."

Those taking part in the scheme will have access to leisure centres, swimming pools and after school sports clubs.

Barbara Hunter, head of Cumbria Outdoors, added: "This project removes many of the barriers that have previously prevented young people from being more active."

Each young person involved will receive a free key ring which provides them with all the information they need to get started on a more active and sporting lifestyle.

They also receive free public transport and the regular support of a local adult "mentor" to help maintain their motivation.