A SOUTH Lakes school has won money for new IT equipment to help it ‘bridge the gap’ between young and old.

Allithwaite Primary School has been awarded £3,000 for tablet computers for its pupils – and in a bid to unite the village they plan to pass on their new-found knowledge to elderly local residents.

Head teacher Brian Jones said: “The youngsters will use the tablets in lessons and then pass on what they’ve learned to older people in the community.

“We want people to be able to use our school more.”

The school entered a Lloyds Bank competition in September and was one of just four across the county to be shortlisted for the cash.

Between September and November local people voted for the scheme they wished to see brought to fruition – Allithwaite School was one of two to be given the maximum £3,000.

The school’s PTA also donated £1,000 towards the scheme, which will pay for seven tablets in the New Year.

Now Mr Jones said staff and pupils planned to hold coffee mornings in school at which pupils would take it in turns to demonstrate their knowledge.

They will also provide transport to elderly people who wish to take up IT lessons.

South Lakes MP Tim Farron hailed the announcement as ‘wonderful news’.

“I want to thank the staff and parents for voting,” he said.

“I was pleased to sign up and vote for Allithwaite School and I know this new IT equipment will make a big difference.”