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In the money

Adam Derbyshire
22/11/2006

LIFE in Gamesley is set to get much better thanks to the injection of almost £250,000 in lottery cash.

All 3,500 residents will be offered the chance to sign up for a range of classes, courses, events and schemes which promise to bring "a real change" to their lives.

It is hoped the new opportunities will broaden their experiences, improve health and boost future prospects.

Codenamed Groundwork Gamesley - People Going Forward - the project will enhance the estate's appearance and strengthen the community, bosses claim.

Early excellence co-ordinator Lynn Kennington said: "It will make a lasting difference to the community by offering new experiences and giving people opportunities they may not otherwise have had.

"Our project will have many different strands that will boost health, confidence and wellbeing. We want to promote family learning, bring the local environment up to scratch and offer better employment prospects.

"Events and activities to bring the community together will include a festival market and group excursions.

"Health days and healthy eating sessions will build knowledge about nutrition and the variety of good food available.

"And art projects, murals and mosaics will decorate previously dull walls and paved areas.

"We have a lot to do to make it happen but thanks to the Big Lottery Fund grant we can now go ahead and make Gamesley better from the ground up."

Mike Dewhurst, chairman of the Gamesley Residents' Association, said: "Anything to benefit the area is always welcomed. Gamesley is like an island but the facilities and amenities leave a lot to be desired. The general infrastructure needs an overhaul and I hope this marks a step in the right direction."