THE Ribble Valley Community Gardening Project is celebrating after receiving a lottery boost.

More than £162,00 was given to the project from the National Lottery Charities Board Community Fund to help them recruit, train and support volunteers.

The volunteers assist people who are unable to take care of their own gardens by providing a voluntary service.

Co-ordinator for the Gardening Project, Mark Taylor, said: "This is great news, the project has always been very popular there is a high demand for our services, now we will be able to help more people when the project expands next year."

The three year grant will pay for two full time co-ordinators, running costs and a base will be established with training and wet weather facilities.

The project will also expand to Hyndburn.

Mark Taylor added: "We aim to involve as many volunteers, particularly people with support needs.

If people would like to volunteer please contact Mark Taylor at 28, Wellgate, Clitheroe, or alternatively ring 01200 429995.