YOUNGSTERS in Winton are calling on people to back their bid for Lottery funding to revamp a local bowling green.

You have have until midnight tonight to try and help the Winton Play Gardens project win vital Lottery funding.

The project to transform part of Winton Recreation Ground into a sensory garden needs to triumph in a telephone ballot to win the People's Millions grant.

To vote for the scheme, call 6228203 from a mobile or 09015 228203 from a landline. Votes cost 15 pence each and people can vote up to 10 times.

The plan is to turn an unused bowling green at Winton Rec-reation Ground into a functional natural space for local guides, scouts, brownies and cubs as currently they have no nearby outdoor area where they can meet and work toward their awards.

The Winton Play Garden will also include play equipment for children with physical and learning disabilities, helping those at the nearby Linwood School for children with special educational needs, and the community in general.

The proposal will go head to head against another project on the ITV Meridian News People’s Millions programme, at 6pm tonight, and whichever gets the most votes will win £50,000 in National Lottery funding.

Amanda Catlin, a Boscombe Neighbourhood Warden, said: “The project will make a real difference to local groups as well as the rest of Bournemouth.

“The play garden, accessed from the current playground through a portcullis and drawbridge, would enable youth groups to explore nature, watch birds, find out about bugs, maybe practice putting up a tent and make use of a lockable fire pit.”

Cllr Lawrence Williams, cabinet member for tourism, leisure and culture, said: “This is a fantastic project that will really benefit children in the community, especially those with special educational needs. I would urge everyone to pick up the phone and vote on the day to make this playground a reality.”

“The new proposed play equipment will be suitable for children with physical and learning disabilities so making it a great accessible place to spend time. Please take a minute to vote on the day to make the project happen.”