A PROJECT organised by Swindon Hockey Club that aims to encourage more people to be active in the town has received a £7,686 cash injection from the National Lottery.

The grant, awarded through the Sport England Small Grants process, will help fund a fresh community project in a year where the club celebrates its centenary season.

Money will help the club become more active in the area and open up opportunities for people to start playing hockey.

The club currently provides hockey for all abilities and age groups - and funds received will help the club’s new base at The Deanery Academy to grow.

Club chairman Jim Towers was thrilled with the funding boost, and said the money will be able to help develop the club’s name in the community.

He said: “The grant will allow us to deliver hockey to a wider range of people and encourage people back to our sport or to pick up a stick for the first time.

“We have got some exciting plans for the coming season as we start to celebrate our centenary season as a club.

“Thank you to everyone who plays the National Lottery, we simply would not be able to do this without you.”