VOTES have been counted for the People’s Project and despite their best efforts, Trowbridge Town Hall was unable to secure the £50,000 prize money.

Although they may not have won the top prize, the organisation has been given £5,000 which director David Lockwood plans to spend on the building’s foyer, after asking members of the public what improvements they would like to see.

He said: “It’s been a hugely rewarding experience, opening ourselves up to ideas from the public.

“There’s been so many wonderful suggestions and the appetite for transforming Trowbridge Town Hall remains strong.

“We’re pleased to have been awarded £5,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund which we’ll put towards improving the entrance to the building, making it a more inviting space for Trowbridge residents to visit throughout the year.”

The People’s Project, which is run by ITV in partnership with The National Lottery, was set up to help local community groups, with a four-week voting period.

Joe Ferns, UK Funding Director at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “The People’s Projects highlights the fantastic things communities are doing across the UK to enable people to thrive.

“In every village, town and city, local groups are working together to turn great ideas into reality and deliver the change people want to see in their area.

“We’re really excited to see this year’s winners use National Lottery funding to strengthen their local community and support people to lead happier and healthier lives.”

This year the winners in the West Country were Able Bakers by Step and Stone in Bristol, who received £49,750 to offer lessons in baking and employability skills for people with learning disabilities.

Move the Mind CIC, in Bath, was also awarded £50,000 to build an outdoor space to carry out therapeutic horse riding for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

The Feel Good Garden by The Community Farm in Chew Magna, near Bristol, was granted £38,300 to refurbish and expand their community garden and wildlife space.

The People’s Projects has awarded around £45 million to over 1,000 good causes since it started in 2005.