A Cornish drama society is celebrating after receiving funding from The National Lottery and plans to create original and immersive plays and films.

Lizard Amateur Dramatics society will use the £10,000 funding to create more enjoyment for locals and visitors to their community.

Chris Ager, Chairman of the group said: "This new National Lottery funding will go towards purchasing all necessary equipment to help make our productions professional, accessible and ultimately providing a truly engaging theatrical experience."

Founding member, Tamara Stidwell who is also a carer in the local care homes, also aims to use the funding to take small sensory shows to the care homes, providing activities for residents who have been the most vulnerable and the most isolated during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Lizard Amateur Dramatics Society hopes that funding will help the group to grow with their "own unique character" and put on shows by evoking community spirit of local knowledge.

The group’s first production "Catching Rabbit", which follows the life of a fictional man who tells his own story of Lizard life, will be performed on August 25, 26, and 27 at Kynance Camping. Tickets are £6, £3 for concession, and come with a free drink.

Locals have been invited to join rehearsals and many new members have now joined the group as actors and set designers.

"We have had fantastic audience feedback from our first production and with two more self-written productions to happen this year, we hope to encourage more of our local residents to support our theatre, whether as budding actors, backstage, or any other supporting roles," added Chris.

The group meets weekly in The Reading Room. Gillian Higgs, set designer said: "The Reading Room has been part of the community for over 100 years and we are committed to supporting the use of the building to benefit the local people, especially in a time when many community spaces in Cornwall are being sold off and made into holiday homes, or profit-based ventures."

National Lottery players raise over £30 million a week for good causes across the UK. The National Lottery Community Fund distributes a share of this to projects to support people and communities to prosper and thrive.