THREE lucky clubs have received a welcome New Year boost from the latest Lottery awards after bagging nearly £6,000 between them.

The three groups, Bromsgrove Referees' Association, Barnt Green Sailing Club and Cofton Hackett Table Tennis Club, were among 270 successful organisations to share more than £1m from the Awards for All grants.

The referees' association received £2,498 which will be spent on a computer package and a television and video, aimed at enhancing the training of referees and to increase the group's membership.

The table tennis club received £2,610 towards a project to increase participation in the sport. The money will buy three table tennis tables, nets and post sets for coaching.

Nearly £700 went to the sailing club. It will go towards buying water sterilizers to improve water quality.

Groups are being encouraged to apply for a grant with £2m to be awarded by March.