Mansfield MP Ben Bradley has welcomed news that local groups received £29,275 in National Lottery funding over recent months — and thanked players for their help.

Ben encouraged more local groups, charities, and good causes to apply for funding from the Lottery, saying it could be a lifeline during the current cost-of-living increases.

One organisation that has benefited from funding in the latest round is Mansfield Town Football In The Community, which received £9,999.

The money will be used as part of its Active Minds project to continue bringing isolated members of the community together through football and other sports.

This programme is aimed at men and aims to reduce isolation, improve mental and physical health, and improve lives.

The funding is distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK.

Ben added: “Funding like this makes a real difference to people in our community. I would encourage any local good cause that may be exploring funding options to look into the National Lottery and apply for funding.”