DOZEN of voluntary groups across South Devon will be able to apply for vital cash grants, thanks to people playing a local lottery.

The Teignbridge Lottery was launched in November, with half of the money raised going to local good causes and community groups. Now 78 local voluntary organisations have registered as beneficiaries for a small grant scheme which runs alongside it.

Ten per cent of the money from ticket sales is held in a central fund, and this will now be shared in small grants, if Teignbridge Council’s executive committee gives the go-ahead when it meets next Tuesday.

The 78 organisations are spread across the district, and around £14,000 will be in the fund by the time bids are invited.

A report to the committee says the council will focus on applications that alleviate the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis and grants would be up to £2,500.

It goes on: 'The cost-of-living crisis has been chosen as the focus for this financial year, due to the feedback we have had through the voluntary and community sector about the pressures our communities are experiencing financially.'