BARROW MP Simon Fell has urged businesses and charities to fund holiday provision plans to help schoolchildren recover from the Covid pandemic.

On Saturday, Mr Fell met local headteacher Caroline Vernon and former Barrow MP John Woodcock, now Lord Walney, to give his backing to their fundraising drive for activities this summer and each school holiday through the year.

The Furness Education and Skills Partnership project involves asking businesses to help finance aid for pupils who have isolated during lockdowns and can fall further behind their learning during holidays.

Mr Fell said: "In previous years, the future leaders’ academy demonstrated that businesses and charities in this area recognise a responsibility to help their future workforce reach their full potential. But the need is greater than ever as we emerge from the pandemic, with so many children becoming less engaged with learning during these difficult months or losing the confidence and mental wellbeing that is essential to successful learning.

"I realise that times are hard for many local businesses and but I urge anyone who can to help fund this vital project."