SIR David Amess MP has thanked National Lottery players in Southend West for their role in raising over £30 million every week for good causes.

He has also urged more local arts, sports, heritage and community groups to apply for National Lottery funding.

Since starting in 1994, £11million of funding has gone to 265 projects in Southend West.

The MP for Southend West said: “Most people play The National Lottery to win, but the reason it was set up in the first place was to fund good causes. National Lottery players have already helped countless local groups, but so many more could still benefit from funding. For example, it can be used to buy equipment, modernise your facility, train volunteers, make a film, or organise an event, activity or performance. I’d strongly urge everyone involved in something like this to consider applying for National Lottery funding.”

To find out more, visit: www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk.