THREE South Coast groups have been awarded a share of a £1 million fund.

They have been awarded the money as part of Persimmon Homes Building Futures competition which is aimed at supporting under-18s.

Second Chance Children's Charity, in Titchfield, Starlight Trampoline & Gymnastics CIC, in Romsey, and Naomi House & Jacksplace, in Sutton Scotney, were among 96 organisations to reach the final stage of the competition.

All three organisations who represented the South Coast in the campaign were awarded £5,000 for making it to the final of the competition.

A spokesperson for Naomi House & Jacksplace said: "Taking part in Building Futures has been a fantastic experience for us and it was so exciting to reach the finals, with such a broad range of groups being represented and we are delighted to have been awarded £5,000.

"We aim to invest the money in installing a sensory garden linking two hospices."

Using the money, Second Chance Children's Charity wants to build a new residential facility at its Rural Centre in Hampshire, while Starlight Trampoline & Gymnastics CIC also wants to build new premises.

Matt Paine, managing director at Persimmon Homes South Coast, said: “The Building Futures scheme has been a great success and it is wonderful to celebrate the fantastic work of so many organisations supporting young people in our communities.

“We have been overwhelmed by both the response to the competition, and the hard work and dedication of those involved within all the groups.”

The winners were announced during a virtual event, presented by Dame Katherine Grainger DBE, chair of UK Sport and Great Britain’s most decorated female Olympian, alongside Persimmon Homes Group CEO Dean Finch.

The final was watched by around 1,500 people where three finalists were each awarded the top prize of £100,000, three the second prize of £50,000 and three the third prize of £20,000.