BAE Systems Submarines is throwing its support behind community initiatives run by Barrow's two professional sports teams.

Rugby league club Barrow Raiders and Barrow AFC both run education and skills outreach sessions in the town and surrounding area, with the Raiders having Papua New Guinea internationals Stargroth Amean and Wartovo Puara involved in their initiatives.

Each club will now benefit from sponsorship to support their programmes over the next 12 months, which takes them not just around Barrow, but to Walney, Askam, Millom and other parts of the Furness community.

BAE Systems commercial director Ian Sanderson said: "We are immensely proud to operate our business in Furness and are committed to supporting our local community through arrangements such as this sponsorship.

"The sponsorship will help broaden the delivery of education and skills activities in the local area."

Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: "We are delighted to form a partnership with BAE Systems. We have been doing lots of great work in the community and we believe that the addition of BAE Systems to our sponsorship list adds real credibility to our Advantage programme.

"Both organisations see the benefit of a better Barrow and both are committed to giving opportunity, especially to those amongst disadvantaged groups. We can't wait for the partnership to begin."

At Barrow AFC, head of community Craig Rutherford said: "It is fantastic for both us and Barrow Raiders that BAE Systems is involved.

"It demonstrates that we're more than just a football club. We are working with children and adults, helping them to stay active. As well as delivering sports activities we are delivering literacy sessions."