COMMUNITY groups in Wrexham and Flintshire have been awarded a slice of £4.1m worth of National Lottery funding.

Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW) has been awarded £485,861 over five years to develop a new model of integrated play and community development work, building on existing high-quality play and youth provision, and extend their reach into the wider community.

Activities will include play schemes, street play, and more.

Welcoming the grant, Claire Pugh of AVOW, said: “The Playwork, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, will enable the community to support their own wellbeing and healthy development by playing.

“Play is one of the most important aspects of children’s lives and is central to their experience and enjoyment of living.

“We know their opportunities for playing will directly affect how they feel about themselves and other aspects of their lives. We have no doubt that our community will thrive and this funding will make such a difference to so many lives.

“On behalf of the children, young people, families and wider community we’d like to say a HUGE ‘thank you’!”

Meanwhile, in Flintshire, Caffi Isa Community Interest Company will use its £8,547 to re-engage the local community who has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by establishing volunteer groups to run a series of events.

Ruth Bates, Interim Director Wales at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, communities across Wales have made an incredible impact, supporting each other over this difficult period.

“As we cautiously look to the future, we know people will continue to make a positive difference to each other’s lives, thanks to the wonderful support provided by the groups funded this month.”

National Lottery players raise £30 million each week for good causes throughout the UK.

To find out more about applying for a grant to help your community adapt, recover and thrive, go to www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/wales.