The Big Lottery Fund has awarded cash to Perth's troubled Horsecross Arts to develop singing, dance and drama work with disadvantaged under-fives.

The Little Stars scheme, which was awarded £9800, aims to help children improve their confidence, and communication skills.

Head of creative learning Noelle Cobden said: "For a high proportion of the children, we are working with, this is their first experience of the arts."

Horsecross Arts operates Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre. It confirmed last year it had a £500,000 hole in its finances, and faced a mass resignation of board members. However new chairman Magnus Linklater said the organisation had "got on top" of its financial woes.

The grant is among £900,000 of grants being made to 22 organisations working with young Scots announced by the Big Lottery Fund this week.