A drumming group, an amateur cricket club and a school wildlife reserve are among those sharing a lottery windfall announced yesterday of nearly �70,000.

A drumming group, an amateur cricket club and a school wildlife reserve are among those sharing a lottery windfall announced yesterday of nearly �70,000.

Thirteen organisations were given �67,558 between them under the Awards for All scheme.

They included Douglas Bader Centre, a pupil referral unit near Coltishall for youngsters excluded from other schools, which received �4,950 for a wildlife reserve to be developed on its grounds.

The project, which will also link with recycling and environmental initiatives, will be promoted to other local schools as well as the public, so the entire community can use the area.

Susan Grant, business manager, said: “In addition to the benefits of learning about nature in an outdoor environment, the wildlife reserve will encourage motivation, emotion-al wellbeing and communication skills among our pupils and we look forward to opening the area to adult learners and the rest of the community as well.

“If there is enough interest, we hope to organise gardening and landscaping sessions with tips and advice for locals. This is a very worthwhile endeavour that will benefit both the community and the natural environment.”

Ketteringham Hall Cricket Club was given �7,325 for new equipment following an increase in interest in the sport since England won the Ashes in 2005.

Richard Parker, honorary president, said the money would help improve facilities and accessibility to the sport.

Dumisani African Drum Group based at Ormesby St Margaret, near Yarmouth, won �3,730 for new equipment.

Secretary Sarah Moore said the activity had health and emotional benefits but the group was desperately short of drums.

“We have had sessions where chairs have been used. The money will allow everyone to be included.”

Also celebrating is Hethersett Jubilee Youth Club which will use a grant of �10,000 to refurbish the local youth centre, which is closed due to lack of funding.

Wickmere Parish Council will use its �10,000 to renovate the village hall including a new roof, insulation, disabled access and new windows.

And the Rotary House for the Deaf received �2,700 to provide independent-living accommodation for people of all ages who suffer from hearing loss.

Jonathan Clark, Big Lottery Fund head of region for the East of England, said: “These projects mean a great deal to the children and community of Norfolk. Whether they are observing wildlife or having fun at the youth centre, Awards for All has been able to turn these projects in to a reality.”