THE MP for Inverclyde has hailed a £500k lottery windfall for the area.

A host of local good causes are to share the sizeable sum in grants and Ronnie Cowan says the cash will make a big impact in the area.

Mind Mosaic have been awarded £200k to enable them to deliver mental health services while Belville Community Garden Trust will get £147k to continue its work.

The busy Lyle Gateway project has been allocated just under £120k for staffing and recruiting and training new volunteers, while the Inverclyde Family Contact Centre group won £20k to support families and children and Holy Family Lunch Club picked up £10k.

Mr Cowan said: "I thank the National Lottery Community Fund for the recognition this gives to volunteering groups here in the community and for all the good these awards will do.

"This announcement is testament to the fantastic work done here in the constituency.

"I said when I became an MP that Inverclyde was not punching its weight in getting lottery funds and that we had to do better.

"I have always urged groups to apply for these funds.

"Now we are bearing the fruits and I have no doubt this money will make a significant difference."

Mr Cowan says the awards show the 'outstanding contributions' the groups make.

He added: "It takes determination, dedication and know-how to deliver these services and they benefit the whole community, not just those who get direct assistance.

"I urge all charities or other good cause organisations to apply for these awards.

"If they need help to make an application they can contact my office for advice."