‘Lot-to’ celebrate in Derry as Eastenders star Jacqueline Jossa launches Lottery awards

A total of 121 National Lottery grants were allocated in this period providing support to arts, sports, heritage and community organisations in the Foyle constituency.

The National Lottery Awards, launched today by TV star Jacqueline Jossa, celebrate the inspirational individuals and groups who do extraordinary things in their community especially during these challenging times.

Last year there were 5,000 nominations made and once again, the National Lottery is looking to hear about those who are going the extra mile, doing amazing things and inspiring others. Anyone who has received National Lottery funding is eligible for nomination.

Winners in each category will receive a £3,000 cash prize for their organisation and a coveted National Lottery Awards trophy.

Former EastEnders actor and National Lottery Awards ambassador Jacqueline Jossa said: “I hope lots of people nominate their local heroes as they deserve to be celebrated, especially during these challenging times when many need the support more than ever.

“So much National Lottery funding goes to great causes and allows these local heroes to continue their inspirational work within our communities and it is thanks to National Lottery players that this can continue.”

Jonathan Tuchner, from The National Lottery, said: “Since 1994, The National Lottery has made a huge positive impact on life across the UK. Thanks to National Lottery players and the £30 million raised each week for good causes, thousands of organisations are making an incredible impact and difference in their local areas.

“The last 12 months have been extremely tough on us all. But as we hope for better days ahead, we are constantly astounded by the way ordinary people and projects responded to adversity with heroic yet simple acts of love, kindness and selflessness that will be long remembered.

“The National Lottery Awards seek to honour those who have stepped up and work tirelessly on behalf of others. We want to thank them and celebrate their incredible efforts.”

Encompassing all aspects of National Lottery good causes funding, the 2021 National Lottery Awards are seeking to recognise outstanding individuals in the following sectors: Culture, Arts & Film; Heritage; Sport; Community/Charity.

There will be a special Young Hero Award for someone under the age of 18 who has gone that extra mile in their organisation. All nominees must work or act for a National Lottery funded organisation or have received National Lottery funding.

Winners of these categories will be chosen by a judging panel made up of members of the National Lottery family and partners.

In addition, projects from any sector who have received National Lottery funding are eligible to enter The National Lottery Project of the Year category. Sixteen shortlisted finalists will compete in a UK-wide public vote in September to claim this title.

To make your nomination for this year’s National Lottery Awards, tweet @LottoGoodCauses with your suggestions or complete an entry form through the website www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards. Entries must be received by midnight on June 7, 2021.