THE persistence of a charity which helps people improve their own homes has gained them a £122,362 boost from National Lottery funds - at the sixth attempt.

Hyndburn Homewise, established ten years ago to help improve homes and the quality of life for residents, has been granted the cash by the National Lotteries Charities Board.

And the group has a second reason to be cheerful - the Government has just announced a separate £49,100 grant which has secured its future for the next three years.

The lottery money, to be spent over three years, will be used to set up a community project to train residents in basic property maintenance and repair. The grant will also help set up a tool loan scheme making it easier for residents to do-it-themselves.

Sue Sinclair, manager of Homewise, said: "Having had five previous applications refused, it just goes to show that you shouldn't give up. This is brilliant news. There are already many residents' associations doing good work in the community.

"This money will help them tackle the repair and maintenance of their own homes. We will work 110 per cent to make sure the community benefits. The Government grant is another piece of fantastic news and shows they are committed to helping vulnerable people."

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