A SPORT fund set up by London mayor Boris Johnson has led to three projects in Haringey receiving important cash lifelines.

Swimming in the borough will received a funding boost of £250,000 and will be used to improve pools across the entire borough.

Work will start next spring at Park Road Leisure Centre, in Hornsey, where new diving boards will be installed so a more varied plan of activities and lessons can be offered.

Northumberland Park Community School, in Trulock Road, will get its swimming pool changing areas upgraded and the Chestnuts Primary School will have its pool brought back into use.

A pool at South Harringay Junior School will benefit from an improved heating system and changing rooms.

Councillor Dilek Dogus, cabinet member for adults and community services, said: "This grant will mean local pools will offer even better facilities for people across the borough.

"We have set ambitious targets to get more people to swim - it’s great fun and helps people stay fit and well."

But swimming is not the only sports project that will benefit.

Coolhurst Lawn Tennis and Squash Club received £100,000 for new squash courts, viewing gallery and gym.

TreeHouse National Centre for Autism Education received £21,327 to provide access to much-needed outdoor sport space for autistic adults and youngsters.

It is part of the mayor's vision to ensure Londoners benefit from a genuine grass roots sporting legacy from the 2012 Games.

Mr Johnson said: "We are fast approaching the final furlong in the build up to the 2012 Games and we want to harness this magnificent opportunity to improve sporting facilities throughout Haringey and encourage many more people into sport for generations to come.

"By working with local organisations, we aim to get inert Londoners off their sofas and involved in a range of activity, and to achieve a true Olympic and Paralympic legacy."