£15k Lottery windfall is just the ticket

Abronhill High School is the latest beneficiary of the Awards for All scheme.

The money will be used to give 32 senior pupils specialist training to become sports coaches in the community.

The sports covered will include handball, rugby, canoeing, badminton and lifeguard training.

MSP Cathie Cragie has welcomed the move.

She said: "Abronhill High School deserves a great deal of credit. Their award will not not only invest in the sports coaches of the future, but will teach pupils the importance of sport safety, encourage healthy living and install discipline."

The news has also delighted education bosses at North Lanarkshire Council.

Jim Logue, convener of Learning and Leisure Services, said: "This is welcome news for everyone associated with Abronhill High School, particularly the pupils who will benefit from the sports coaching programme. I'm sure they will benefit greatly from this programme and develop many new skills which will serve them well throughout their lives."

it has emerged that an increasingly high profile community group has also struck it lucky via Awards For All - in a move which could further increase the visitor potential of a local beauty spot.

The Friends of Cumbernauld House Park scooped 5,412.

The cash will be used for information signs highlighting the history of the A-listed building and wildlife that can be found in the park.

MSP Cathie Craigie said. "People from across Scotland and beyond visit the park and it is important they know all about it."

Glyn Price, chairman of the Friends of Cumbernauld House Park said: "We are delighted and we hope that the signs will improve people's understand of the history surrounding the house."