AN MP has given her backing to plans to improve and expand a floating activity centre.

The Fellowship Afloat Charitable Trust (FACT) has received support from Witham MP Priti Patel as it seeks to revamp its centre, which is based on the salt marshes in Tollesbury.

The charity is two fifths of the way through a project aimed at improving facilities and needs to secure funding before the next phase can begin.

Once the project is complete, FACT says its will be able to cater for more than 1,000 young people each year and welcome a wider range of groups.

Ms Patel was given a glimpse of what physical activities are already on offer at the centre during a recent visit and got to see youngsters having a go at water sports, archery and climbing.

She admitted she was impressed by FACT’s vision and gave her backing to the proposed improvements.

She said: “I was delighted to visit and see the activities they provide and particularly welcome the support they give to young people with special needs.

“FACT has some brilliant and exciting plans for the future and they have my support in their efforts to secure funding.”

FACT says it hopes the cash can be secured in time to start the next stage of its project in November.

For more information about the expansion, contact 01621 868113.