A BOLTON-based project with designs to bring the arts into schools has been boosted by a Lottery windfall of more than £96,000.

Greater Manchester Artists in Schools started in Bolton in 1996 and since then has expanded into Bury and Rochdale.

It has already undertaken 350 ventures in schools ranging from half day "big impact" music projects to extended professional artists' residences.

The scheme encompasses music, dance, drama, crafts and visual arts.

Projects undertaken in Bolton have included the creation of a stained glass window, willow weaving with special needs pupils, mosaics, and the creation of a mural with schoolchildren for the Royal Bolton Hospital.

These are among the visual arts, but there have been drama, music and dance projects.

Rosie Marcus, director, explained: "It is terrific to get professional artists into schools. Getting the children to meet art professionals brings them extra expertise.

"In school the children get to meet firemen and policemen for example, so why not artists?

"We want to provide new opportunities to fill gaps in the curriculum using artists' creative skills.

"But in addition, the schemes are designed to build team work. Skills the youngsters are taught can also raise their self-esteem. Art can have an impact on people generating confidence.

"Transferable skills such as language are also passed on.

"It is not just about impacting on art achievement."

The National Lottery cash was announced by the North-west Arts Board. The Bolton based project is one of five set to receive awards. The £96,085 windfall is the largest individual grant received by any.

Rosie said: "We are absolutely delighted with it. It will enable us to undertake quite a few new projects, particularly focusing on 'citizenship' which is due to be come part of the school curriculum.

"We can deliver aspects of it through a large amount of activities including visual arts and drama. We will explore areas surrounding identity -- who you are and how you fit into the community for example."