ORGANISERS of an awards scheme that recognises lottery-funded projects say Devon hasn’t had the recognition it deserves.

The call comes after it was revealed that there have been no Devon winners in the last decade in the National Lottery Awards.

Now the county is being targeted to enter the awards so that one of the many examples of lottery-funded projects in Devon could be in with the chance of winning a national title.

A major Devon beneficiary of the National Lottery has been Castle Drogo, near Chagford, where £2.8 million was given towards a massive restoration project.

In total, Devon has received £438 million in Lottery funding invested in causes such as Children’s Hospice South West, which was granted £617,000 and South West Wildlife Trusts, which have been awarded £838,000.

Jackie O’Sullivan, director of the National Lottery Good Causes, said: ‘There are some incredible examples of Lottery-funded projects in Devon, who more than deserve to be celebrated nationwide.

‘The National Lottery is doing special work to encourage entrants from Devon — so please nominate a local project that deserves recognition.’

National Lottery Awards winners will receive a £3,000 cash prize and recognition at a ceremony broadcast on BBC One later in the year. Any organisation that has ever received National Lottery funding can enter.

National Lottery Awards cover seven categories — sport, heritage, arts, environment, health, education and voluntary/charity — to reflect the range of funding that the Lottery gives out.

There is also a special achievement award to recognise the contribution made by an individual to improving the lives of others.

If you wish to nominate a project in this year’s National Lottery Awards, tweet @LottoGoodCauses with your suggestion or call 0207 2933329. Entries must be received by midnight on April 7.