Lottery lovers are being asked to play the East Hampshire Community Lottery to help local good causes.

The lottery is run by East Hampshire District Council as a fun way for local charities, voluntary groups and not-for-profit organisations to raise money. There is a weekly draw in which up to £25,000 can be won.

Every year cash raised through the lottery that has not been allocated directly to a good cause is put into the Community Chest and used to fund projects run by local community groups and organisations with grants of up to £1,000.

There are currently 82 good causes registered with the lottery which are enjoying a funding boost from their supporters.

Players buy tickets online for £1 each, with 50p from each ticket sold going straight to the registered good cause of their choice, 40p used for prizes and administration and 10p going to the council’s Community Chest fund.

Good causes can apply for a grant from this fund twice a year and the next round of funding opens on September 22. Only registered good causes can apply.

Charities and community groups interested in registering as a good cause, and people interested in playing, should visit https://www.easthantslottery.co.uk/

Last year eight groups received grants from the Community Chest. Support for young families, play equipment for pupils, arts and crafts classes and improved community facilities all came about as a result.

Cllr Adeel Shah, East Hampshire District Council’s portfolio holder for community development and engagement, said: "Every year the Community Chest supports some fantastic local groups and wonderful projects.

"I am looking forward to helping even more of our essential community organisations continue their amazing work. By supporting local projects such as these we can improve the lives of hundreds of local residents."