A VOLUNTARY organisation has been awarded thousands of pounds in Lottery cash, it was announced today.

Bolton District Council for Voluntary Service, which offers support and advice to local groups, has received £195,843 from the National Lottery Charities Board.

The three-year grant will be put towards the organisation's running costs and to pay for new and existing staff, including outreach workers and a training co-ordinator.

Karen Minnitt, assistant chief officer of the Bolton District CVS, said: "It's absolutely excellent news. We will be able to boost the skills of volunteer groups in the town and make their experiences much more satisfactory."

The CVS is one of ten groups in Greater Manchester receiving awards totalling £2,176,685 under the Poverty and Disadvantage and Community Involvement programmes.

The largest award -- £409,349 -- went to Salford Council for Voluntary Service.

Charities Board North West Regional Manager Andy Freeney said: "It is very satisfying to see so many groups applying to us for funding and these grants can make a huge difference to the local community."

Bolton District CVS attempts to remove barriers to volunteering in minority ethnic communities and with the money's help, the project will be expanded across the borough.

Applications are being sought for the National Lottery Charities Board's new international grants programme.

The scheme is aimed at UK-based charities and voluntary organisations working with partner groups overseas.

Application lines close on January 26, 2001, with the deadline for the completed application being March 16, 2001. Telephone 0845 7919191 or visit www.nicb.org.uk