To celebrate, Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon met a group of talented people who are benefiting from that money.

From a tai chi instructor and a young guitarist to a Cirque Berserk dancer and a gymnast, each have been able to nurture their talents and make a difference to their communities thanks to funding from National Lottery good causes distributors.

[quote=Alesha Dixon, Britain’s Got Talent judge]"Everyone who plays the National Lottery should feel proud they are supporting so many people, of all ages, to develop their talents."[/quote]

Alesha Dixon said: “National Lottery players have just written a massive cheque for the nation. It will make such a difference to arts, sport, heritage and community groups. Everyone who plays the National Lottery should feel proud they are supporting so many people, of all ages, to develop their talents.”

The event also saw Alesha pay tribute to Jimi Hendrix in his flat – opened to the public as the Hendrix Museum for the first time this month following an HLF-supported £1.2m restoration.

January boost for heritage

Here are just some of the differences HLF grants awarded in January will make:

• More than 350 unemployed people are set to develop skills at Scotland’s Waterways Trust’s Canal College
• Nine historic but run-down townscapes will receive some much-needed care and attention
• Young footballers in Northumberland will be able to follow in the Charlton brothers’ footsteps as their childhood park gets ready for huge improvements
• People visiting Kielder Park in Northumberland will be able to see the wild side of the home of 60 per cent of the UK’s red squirrel population

How has National Lottery funding made a difference to you? Tell us on Twitter using #ChangingLives or get in touch via email.