More than £2 million of National Lottery money could be available to fund school and community sports facilities in Dorset.

But spending plans drawn up by Dorset County Council will have to be approved by the New Opportunities Fund if schools are to receive the cash.

The county council will discuss the best use for the £2,082,000 with schools, sports organisations and health authorities before they submit the spending plans in April next year.

County council sports development officer Dave Franks said: "It is exciting news that Dorset County Council is in a position to attract another £2 million to help develop school sports facilities which will benefit not just the schools but the wider community."

Mr Franks said the money would be used to improve existing sports facilities in schools.

He said: "Realistically the money isn't enough for a major project such as building a new sports centre for one school.

"Rather it will be used to provide improvements to existing facilities."

The announcement has already been welcomed by those working to improve sports facilities in the area.

Weymouth Sports Club secretary Mick de Jonge said: "As far as sport in Dorset is concerned, any money is good money.

"It is an area that has been sadly neglected over the years."

Mr de Jonge hoped funding would be available to help existing projects struggling to receive support.

He said: "If the cash is definitely there for the spending then it is most welcome."

Chairman of the New Opportunities Fund, responsible for the PE and sport programme, Baroness Jill Pitkeathley said: "The funding will substantially change the face of sporting provision in our schools and communities.

"In providing many more young people with the opportunity to engage in a range of physical activities, we can help build a more inclusive and healthier society."