EUXTON schools got a cash boost after Lancashire County Council joined forces with woman power!

St Mary's CE, Euxton CE, St Mary's RC and Primrose Hill County schools each received cheques at a ceremony to mark the completion of 21 environmental and community projects in the region.

The schemes -- which began in Spring 1999 -- were the ideas of WI groups across the region to mark the new millennium. They included footpath improvements, creation of circular walks, and provision of wildlife gardens for schools.

And money raised over the last few months has been given to Euxton's schools to help improve their grounds.

County councillor Alan Whittaker, from the planning, industrial development and tourism committee, said: "I am pleased we have been able to work in partnership with the WI to make their ideas come to life. "Environmental improvements, be they big or small, really make a difference to the lives of local people."

Carol Rutter, of Euxton WI, said: "The WI is a caring, educational organisation and we are particularly pleased to have been able to work with people of all ages on these projects.

"It is important to preserve and enhance our local areas for the benefit of future generations and the 21 projects have done just that."