PEOPLE throughout the county can today get behind a heritage project in Droitwich bidding for lottery funds.

The scheme to build a replica Wych barge in Vines Park is one of eight across the country in line to scoop £50,000 in the Big Lottery Fund vote on television.

It will be featured on Central TV News, giving viewers the chance to vote for projects they think will benefit the community.

Wych barges were used to carry Droitwich salt from the Vines area to the River Severn for distribution around the country, helping to build the town's prosperity. The static replica, set on land, will contain picnic benches and information about Droitwich Spa, its canals and the salt industry.

Margaret Rowley, chairman of Droitwich Canals Trust, said: "The trust and other local community organisations have been involved in developing the concept, the children in particular will have fun exploring an important part of the history of their town in this way."

Mayor Droitwich Coun Richard Morris is urging local people to vote for the scheme. "I urge our townspeople to watch the programme and vote for this initiative. Anything that supports the continuation of our unique history and tradition, I believe, is so important.

The lottery cash winners will be announced on Central News on Friday, November 4.

l Tomorrow viewers can also vote for Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society to win a £50,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund for their Make a Difference project.