NEARLY £48 million has been handed out to good causes across Inverclyde in National Lottery funding in the 30 years since the lottery was launched, according to new figures.

The Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West total - of £47,945,376 - is part of a payout of £49 billion made to good causes around the UK since the first lottery draw was made way back in November 1994.

The National Lottery says that 1,167 good causes in the area have received financial support in those 30 years.

Much of it has gone to small charities with annual incomes of £500,000 or less.

Most of the £48 million in the local area has gone to good causes in Inverclyde itself, though some has also been distributed to communities in Renfrewshire which have formed part of the new Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West seat since it was expanded for the general election earlier this year, including Bridge of Weir, Houston and Crosslee.

Lotto players' ticket money still raises around £30 million every week for good causes.

Since that first draw, on November 19, 1994, the lottery has paid out £53 billion in prizes and created more than 7,200 millionaires.

Mr McCluskey said: "The National Lottery's impact on Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West has been significant. Their funding has touched countless lives.

"While jackpot winners make headlines, the real success story is how every ticket sold contributes to improving our community.

"I want to make sure our area always gets its fair share of lottery funding, but that relies on local organisations applying.

"I urge local organisations to explore National Lottery funding opportunities.

"If any local organisation wants any assistance to explore National Lottery funding, please get in touch."

Jonathan Tuchner, from The National Lottery, said: "For 30 years, National Lottery funding has been a catalyst for positive change across the UK.

"With over £49 billion raised for Good Causes, we've supported more than 690,000 projects nationwide.

"Our work has been particularly crucial in recent years as communities faced unprecedented challenges, from the pandemic to the cost-of-living crisis. Looking ahead, we remain committed to addressing broader societal issues, including climate change and social inequality.

"The National Lottery's 30th birthday is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a renewed commitment to fostering positive change.

"Thanks to our players, we'll continue to empower communities, champion creativity, and build a more sustainable future for all."

For information on the wide range of funding opportunities available through the 12 National Lottery distributors operating across the UK, please visit lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/funding.