HELP is at hand for would-be National Lottery winners - without consulting Mystic Meg!

Burnley council is organising a special advice day for people who want to know more about the National Lotteries and Charities Board and the money available to help organisations.

There will also be guidance for those who already have an application form and are confused by it.

The town hall has linked with the local Council for Voluntary Service and community training business, Bootstrap, to offer friendly and informal assistance, which includes how to get through the assessment process, how to manage a project and how to prepare a business plan.

Lea Fothergill, of the council's urban regeneration unit, says: "The Charities Board has just announced its latest grants programme, focusing on tackling homelessness and its effects, addressing environmental issues and supporting work with animals which benefits people. Groups may need help with their applications." The day-long seminar runs from 10am to 3.30 pm at Burnley Central Methodist Church on Thursday July 3.

Groups wishing to be represented should contact Mrs Fothergill at Burnley Town Hall, 01282 425011, or Dorothy Lowe, at CVS on 01282 433740, to make a booking.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.