CATS — the Community Action Through Sport which began in Bude — has been awarded £256,750 from BIG Lottery and a further £20,000 from Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales

Denise may, MBE, says: "It is fantastic news for the charity which, although small, has been punching above its weight for the last couple of years with some outstanding community projects.

"I am astounded at the award, which is in true recognition for all the hard work and impact of CATS since its launch in May 2005.

"Although a local charity, it has certainly spread its wings with five other branches already established in Cornwall.

"This funding will now enable us to engage new partners across the South West who will be able to benefit from the support and growth of CATS. Huge congratulations must go to Clair Roberts, the project development manager, with the support of Michelle Roberts from the Callington/Saltash branch, who worked so hard to put this bid together."

CATS ethos is to promote, recognise and reward all young people for positive community action with sports based awards. Simply put, they engage young people in volunteering in their community and give them access to sports that they may not have considered or afforded before.

But there is more to it than that. CATS has developed some innovative projects such as Street Paddler, Friday Night Splash and Urban Surf Reward weekends. All of these programmes have been developed to give young people access to sport, draw them away from nuisance behaviour, give opportunities for national qualifications and volunteering and of course recognise those youngsters for their positive contribution in the community.