THE Health Lottery is celebrating ten years at the heart of communities across Great Britain, including the Isle of Wight.

More than £121 million has been raised through The Health Lottery (THL) for more than 3,000 diverse community groups in its first decade.

These support grassroots projects which champion mental and physical wellbeing alongside community development.

During this special celebratory year, The Health Lottery is highlighting some of the life-enhancing charities that have been helped.

Among them is Independent Arts' Anxiety Cafe, which received an injection of more than £20,000 from People’s Health Trust.

Based in Newport, it provides an inclusive and hassle-free space for people on the Island living with anxiety.

Read more: Rough seas pass for Isle of Wight's anxiety cafe

Managing director of the Health Lottery, Martin Ellice, said: “The past 18 months have shown everyone the importance of community.

"The pandemic has shown how important dedicated volunteers are to their communities and we will continue to support them for many years to come.

“Although we are celebrating The Health Lottery’s birthday, we are also keen to celebrate the charities and volunteers who ensure the funds we raise truly make a difference.

"We celebrate them today as well.”

You can buy Health Lottery tickets online at www.healthlottery.co.uk