MORE than £1.4 million of National Lottery funding was invested into West Somerset and Bridgwater last year, figures reveal.

Across Bridgwater and West Somerset, 33 grants were awarded, providing a vital cash injection to local arts, sports, heritage and community groups helping the area’s most vulnerable people.

The West Somerset Nursery Group, in Minehead, was one of the lucky cash receivers – they were awarded a grant of £8,769.

The money was to purchase and install a sensory room for children with learning and emotional needs and other children to enjoy. 

Nursery manager Abi Moloney said it had made a real difference to some of the children.

The projects now have a chance to gain national recognition for their work as the National Lottery Awards open.

The awards have seven categories, each reflecting an area of Lottery funding: Sport, Heritage, Arts, Environment, Health, Education and Voluntary/ Charity.

John Barrowman, presenter of last year’s National Lottery Awards show, said: “Everyone in Bridgwater and West Somerset who plays the National Lottery should be proud of the difference their money is making in the local community.

“If you know of a Lotteryfunded organisation that deserves to be nominated, we want to hear from you.”

Awards winnners will receive a £2,000 cash prize and national recognition at a starstudded event later this year.

Projects wishing to enter and to find out more can do so by visiting www.national lotteryawards.org.uk or call 0207-293-3599.

Entries must be received by midnight on March 12.