Countdown star Rachel Riley is searching for lockdown legends in Preston as part of the 2020 National Lottery Awards.

This year the annual search for the UK’s most popular National Lottery funded projects will honour individuals who have made an extraordinary impact in their community using National Lottery funding, especially those who have adapted during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

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Winners in each category will receive a £3,000 cash prize for their organisation and a coveted National Lottery Awards trophy. Nominations for the National Lottery Awards close on Wednesday 19 August.

Rachel is encouraging the people of Preston to make their nominations before the closing date.

She says: “Thanks to National Lot­­tery players, some £600 million has gone to support communities in the crisis. But this year we want to honour the people within those projects who adapted so quickly and gave extra help.

“The awards are a great way to celebrate positivity when there’s such a lot of negativity out there. It’s a real chance to say thank you.”

See virtual events in your area below

Encompassing all aspects of National Lottery good causes funding, the 2020 National Lottery Awards are seeking to recognise outstanding individuals in the following sectors:

• Arts
• Education
• Health
• Environment
• Sport
• Heritage
• Community / Charity

There will also be a special Young Hero Award for someone under the age of 18 who has gone that extra mile in their organisation.

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All nominees must work or act for a National Lottery funded organisation or have received National Lottery funding.

To make a nomination tweet @LottoGoodCauses with your suggestions or complete the online entry form.

Read more: Latest news and updates from Blog Preston

Do you know a local lockdown legend? Tell us about them in the comments below.