An organisation in South East Cornwall has been selected as a finalist for the West Country West region in this year’s Big Lottery People’s Project, and if successful will receive up to £50,000 in funding.

The award is based on a public vote, and ‘Battling On’, based at Merryhue Farm, near Callington, which works with ex-armed forces veterans and vulnerable young people, is hoping to get the local community behind them.

Run as a Community Interest Company, Battling On was founded by Nikki Markham five years ago.

Helena Drawer, speaking for the organisation, said: ‘We really need as many people as possible to vote for us.

’Winning the £50,000 would be a huge boost, and will help Battling On’s Inspiring Lives project, which will support ex-military veterans, who have themselves overcome trauma, to be trained as instructors and volunteers.

‘Once trained the veterans will act as positive role models, and will run workshops and outdoor and volunteering activities for young people with learning difficulties, disabilities and mental health disorders. This will help them to gain confidence to reduce their social isolation, by mixing with others with similar difficulties.’

To vote for Battling on visit the website where there is a link to vote for The People’s Project: www.battling-on.com