Recently Rebecca met with the team from the People's Postcode Lottery to hear how players' support is helping charities across our area.

In recent years, over £67,000 has been awarded to good causes here in Castle Point and Bowers Gifford.

The Postcode Lottery funds a wide range of projects through its regional trusts, such as the Postcode Places Trust, offering grants up to £25,000 for community, environmental and wellbeing projects.

If you are part of a local charity or community group make sure you visit the local trust website via: www.postcodeplacestrust.org.uk/apply-for-a-grant.

After the meeting, Rebecca said: "This is a fantastic boost for our local community groups, but I want good causes in the Borough to apply for more!"

"Thank you to the People's Postcode Lottery for supporting local causes and to all our brilliant community volunteers who make Castle Point such a special place."