NEW figures have revealed that £18 million of National Lottery funding has been invested into Bracknell since it began 25 years ago.

National Lottery grants have been awarded to groups in Bracknell including the Sandhurst Town Football club. The money helped improve their football pitch, changing rooms and flood lights.

Jonathan Tuchner, director of promotions at National Lottery, said: “Since its launch 25 years ago, The National Lottery has changed lives the length and breadth of the UK. As I walk around my neighbourhood, I’m proud of how many projects and organizations the National Lottery has funded.

“From helping people who have mental health issues to keeping teenagers out of trouble with free after school clubs.

“It’s all down to local people who choose to do incredible things with National Lottery funding, changing their communities for the better, step by step. I look forward to what we can achieve together over the next 25 years.”

A total of £5,352 was given to the Bracknell Forest Natural History Society, which was used to convert disused land into a place with trees and flowers for the community to enjoy.

As part of the National Lottery’s 25 years celebrations any organization who has received National Lottery funding is being encouraged to enter the 25th Birthday National Lottery Awards.

The winners will receive a £10,000 prize and national recognition at a ceremony that will be broadcast on BBC One.

Entries for the awards close on Tuesday, April 30.

For more information, visit: https://www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards