A GROUP of residents are celebrating after being handed a lottery cash boost.

Members of Stonemoor Bottom residents’ group in Padiham have been awarded £9,000 from the National Lottery Awards for All fund.

And the “elated” residents have vowed to spend the money on worthwhile schemes, including helping the town’s youngsters into sport and taking elderly residents out on trips.

Ann Bartlett, who chairs the group, said: “I felt as high as a kite when I found out we had got the money.

“We were all absolutely elated for the kids and hopefully we can spend it wisely — I am sure we will.

“It has taken a lot of work to get the cash. We have got no paid staff and, although Calico have given us premises in Malvern Aven-ue, we have to pay for the bills.

“I would just like to thank everyone who has helped us out over the last few years.”

Members of the group hope to spend part of the money on setting up a new football side for teenagers, as well as cheerleading classes for girls and arts and crafts sessions for youngsters. Mrs Bartlett added: “We are trying to establish a football team for the 16 to 18-year-olds in Padiham.

“Sessions for the younger lads will come along later but in the meantime we want training for older ones so they can get involved with coaching the youngsters.

“We can see a need for supporting the young people in Padiham so we can give them some pride and something to achieve.

“This is our way of saying let’s have some get up and go.”

Mrs Bartlett said older members of the Stonemoor Bottom group are currently deciding on locations for day trips which will be funded by the lottery cash.