THE MP for Central Devon has welcomed the Government's decision to keep the Primary PE and Sport Premium until 2020.

The premium was introduced in 2013 to boost participation in sport in schools, and goes directly to head teachers to spend on activities to best suit their children's needs.

Devon's share is around £27-million, which equates to approximately £9,000 per year per school.

Welcoming the decision Central Devon MP Mel Stride said: 'This is great news for primary schools here in Devon and across the country. The 43 schools in my constituency will share nearly £400,000 a year for the next six years, which can be spent on PE teachers, better equipment and providing greater sporting opportunities for pupils with special educational needs.

'Playing more sport at an early age will have a positive impact on the health of our next generation, as well as teaching them important skills such as teamwork,' he said.