PIGEON fanciers are hoping that National Lottery cash will encourage more people to come forward and take up the sport.

Evenwood Workingmen's Club Homing Society has been awarded £4,175 from the National Lottery's Awards for All scheme.

The money is helping the club buy equipment such as timing clocks, data printers and publicity material.

The equipment will enable the group to encourage and help people get started in the sport.

Under-16s who may have an interest in the sport can also adopt a pigeon for a season and follow its progress.

Michael Dodd, a member of the club's committee, said: "With diminishing numbers in the group, we needed to do something to attract people to the club.

"Too many people cannot afford to start in this sport and that is when we thought about seeking grant aid."

Community development worker Danielle Barnes, who works in Cockfield and Evenwood, supported the club with its National Lottery bid.

She said: "I am really pleased the group was successful. The new equipment they have purchased will enable existing members of the group to compete more effectively, plus help others get started."

To join the club, call Alan Jackson on (01388) 832909.