Ashby area residents will soon be able to take part in a local lottery after it was given the go-ahead by North West Leicestershire District Council this evening (Tuesday).

The lottery proposal, put forward by Cllr Michael Wyatt, is aimed at benefitting local charities as well as offering prize money to individual winners.

A recent meeting of the council's Scrutiny Committee was told that other Leicestershire councils had raised significant amounts for charity.

Councillors heard that Blaby had raised £170,000 for local good causes over the lifetime of its lottery - with Charnwood's figure £115,000.

The lottery idea was introduced by Cllr Michael Wyatt. Photo: North West Leicestershire District Council

The Scrutiny Committee raised a number of points about how the lottery would be organised - with council specialists Gatherwell in line to set it up in the district.

But this evening's Cabinet committee meeting backed the plan with council leader, Cllr Richard Blunt, giving it his public support.

Cllr Blunt said: "It's an initiative that we can have up and running very quickly.

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"We all need to make sure it's a success."

Cllr Wyatt told the meeting: "The lottery would raise vital funds for local good causes.

Council leader, Cllr Richard Blunt, supported the scheme. Photo: North West Leicestershire District Council

"This would be in common with over 120 councils that have done the same - 60p from every £1 ticket going to local charities and voluntary organisations who make such a difference to the community in North West Leicestershire.

"There is a formal launch planned for this summer.

"I believe it will help many local community based projects and groups who sometimes miss out on funding."