Lotto of us making lives better

Community spirit is alive and well in the North West of England, according to a new survey for The National Lottery Good Causes ahead of the Diamond Jubilee.

People in the North West are the most likely in England to have run an errand or done a chore for someone outside of their immediate family in the last month (61% compared to UK average of 55%).

The Queen has said she hopes that her Diamond Jubilee will bring people together in a spirit of neighbourliness and celebrate the voluntary service given by millions.

National Lottery players have raised over £28 billion since the Lottery started in 1994, funding 15,000 community groups, 3,000 sports clubs and 6,000 arts projects in the North West.

The National Lottery has a key role in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations through its funding of The BIG Jubilee Lunches, parks and community centres where celebrations are taking place.

Commenting on the findings, Peter Wanless, Chairman of The National Lottery Forum, said: “This poll suggests community spirit is strong and most people go out of their way to help others.

"The National Lottery brings people together by funding community groups, local arts and sports clubs. Millions will make new friends at celebrations at lottery-funded parks, community centres and  Jubilee lunches over the long weekend.

"National Lottery players raise £30 million every week for Good Causes. They should be proud that this money is changing so many lives in their local community.”