Lottery cash is win for Blackpool traders

Cash awarded by the National Lottery is adding up to an extra special Christmas in Blackpool this year.
National Lottery cash has provided a festive boost for residents and traders on Waterloo RoadNational Lottery cash has provided a festive boost for residents and traders on Waterloo Road
National Lottery cash has provided a festive boost for residents and traders on Waterloo Road

Social Enterprise Solutions, based at the Enterprise Centre on Lytham Road, successfully applied for a grant that will pay for a Christmas tree and lights on Waterloo Road, street lights, a switch-on event and a host of entertainment.

The money from the Big Lottery Fund will also cover the cost of a children’s fun workshop, Santa and his sleigh, food and drink and specially designed shopping bags for everyone.

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Shop owners on Waterloo Road are now planning to stay open on the switch-on evening, on Wednesday, and are going to town decorating their shop fronts. Residents will also be encouraged to leave messages around the tree for family and loved ones to read over Christmas.

Alistair Clarke, from Social Enterprise Solutions, said: “Money’s tight this year so when I read the application for the Big Lottery Fund’s ‘Celebration’ grant it sounded ideal.

“It’s aimed at bringing communities together and a big Christmas party will do just that. This money has spurred everyone to get involved which has been brilliant.

“Everyone I have spoken to has wanted to get involved including Sandcastle Waterpark, Lancashire Police, the High Sheriff of Lancashire and Tesco has been really generous with money and presents.

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“So, even if it is bit damp on November 30, I hope everyone will come out and help us celebrate on Waterloo Road.”

The big switch-on event has also got the thumbs up from local councillor David O’Hara who represents the Waterloo ward.

He said: “The Big Lottery funding will be a great boost for the local people and businesses and also brighten up the whole area for residents and visitors.

“I’m really pleased as this will be great for the areas around Waterloo Road.”

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Since 2004, the Big Lottery Fund has awarded over £8bn to projects that change the lives of millions of people, making it the largest funder of community activity in the UK.

The switch-on will take place on Wednesday from 4.30pm to 7.30pm