A South East Cornwall charity that works with military veterans and young people won a £50,000 prize in the Big Lottery Fund People’s Project.

Battling On, based at Merryhue Farm near Callington, won the money for its ‘Inspiring Lives’ work with ex-armed forces veterans and vulnerable young people.

The Inspiring Lives project will work with 60 young people with learning difficulties and disabilities and mental health problems, aiming to help them overcome social isolation and gain real skills to take into the next stage of their lives.

In addition, it will employ two armed forces veterans who have themselves overcome trauma, who will act as mentors and role models to the young people.

The charity won the money in a TV vote on ITV Westcountry.

Nikki Markham, the founding director who set up Battling On five years ago, said: ‘We are absolutely delighted with the result.

‘It really shows how much support this project has from the local community, national organisations and all the individuals who voted for us.

This money will make a real difference, not just for the individuals who participate in the Inspiring Lives project, but also for their families and communities. We want to thank everyone who has supported our campaign.’