SCHOOLS, sports clubs, voluntary organisations and other community groups are to share a £70,000 pot of National Lottery cash to improve quality of life.

There are 19 East Lancashire winners in the Awards for All scheme, which aims to provide funding for non-profit organisations that support community activities, extend access and participation and increase skills and creativity.

Among the successful applicants is Haslingden High School, which has received £4,888 to improve after-school sport facilities: a new trampoline and Cricket equipment will be bought.

It is the second piece of good news for the school this week after the Government awarded it £500,000 to make it a performing arts college.

Headteacher Nigel Jackson said: "We are delighted with it because it enables pupils to benefit, and there is a lot of interest, especially in trampolining.

"It seems a long time ago we filled the form in to apply, but now we hope to get the equipment in place as soon as possible."

Ivy Bank High School, Byron Street, Burnley, received £4,961 to buy state-of-the-art radio equipment.

The school launched its own radio station six months ago. Michael Watson, the school's development officer, said: "It's absolutely fantastic.

"It will help the pupils create, innovate and also be more motivated.

"If they wanted a career in radio, it is good training."

Other recipients include:

Blackburn with Darwen: £5,000 for Friends of Autistic Children Working Together to establish programme of recreational activities for volunteers; £4,979 for Blackburn and Darwen Junior Football League to establish two new leagues for girls; £1.660 for Highfield Scout group to buy camping equipment; £1,225 for the Ethnic Minority Elderly Association to celebrate Eid; £1,170 for Churches Action to fund training in recycling and first aid for staff; £3,250 for the Friends of Sunnyhurst Woods to restore a local drinking fountain.

Hyndburn: £4,150 for Oswaldtwistle Junior Football Club to start an under-12 section for girls. £1,452 for the Women's Forum to organise a multi-cultural healthy living event. £4,500 for the Disabled Association for Sport in Hyndburn to develop coaching in various sports. £551 for the 2nd Rishton Methodist Brownies to buy camping equipment.

Ribble Valley: £4,541 for the 18+ Group to buy IT equipment for teaching. £3,810 for Fearns High School to set up football coaching for girls.

Rossendale: £4,555 for Haslingden Cricket Club to install an all weather wicket. £4,940 for Rossendale United Junior Football Club to extend its membership by paying for coaching courses; £4,940 for Rossendale Valley FC to hire a sports hall and put on courses.