The eye watering sum handed out to good causes in Warrington via National Lottery

A FORMER Strictly Come Dancing star and Invictus Games Gold Medallist has launched a hunt to find 30 people who have done extraordinary things with National Lottery funding over the past three decades.

Since the first National Lottery draw in 1994, £63,521,560 has been awarded to good causes within Warrington through more than 2,000 grants.

These grants have helped arts, heritage, sport and community organisations and projects across the town.

JJ Chalmers, who is a former Royal Marine Commando and broadcaster, is now urging the public to celebrate the achievements of individuals across the country by nominating them as a National Lottery Game Changer.

The 37-year-old suffered horrific injuries in Afghanistan in 2011 in a blast that killed two of his colleagues and meant he narrowly avoided a double arm amputation.

Chalmers understands the importance of celebrating the achievements of inspirational people and is a patron of Help for Heroes and is an ambassador for the Invictus Games.

“During my own recovery journey and involvement with the Invictus Games, I have encountered countless unsung heroes who work tirelessly to improve the lives of people around them,” he said.

“I think it’s really important that we celebrate these inspirational individuals and thank them for all that they do.

“If you know somebody who has done something amazing with National Lottery funding over the last 30 years then please take the time to nominate them as a National Lottery Game Changer.”

National Lottery Game Changers will recognise people four categories: arts, community, heritage and sport.

“Since it was established 30 years ago, the National Lottery has been able to strengthen local communities, power sports teams, preserve and celebrate our heritage, support environmental projects, unleash creative talent, empower the elderly and unlock young people’s potential,” said Jonathan Tuchner, from the National Lottery.

“As part of our 30th birthday celebrations we want to honour those who have gone above and beyond to make a difference in their communities with the help of National Lottery funding.”

Any person who has received National Lottery funding or is part of a National Lottery funded project is eligible for nomination, which can be done here.