NEWPORT community projects received more than £1.2 million from the Big Lottery Fund in 2010 - more than four times the amount handed out the year before.

Between January and December 2010, the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) gave away £1,299,229, compared to the £319,749 in grants given away between January and December 2009.

The huge jump in funding comes after BIG joined forces with the Argus on its Newport outreach strategy in October to encourage more of the city's community groups to apply for funding.

Groups that benefited from BIG awards over the last 12 months include Lylac Ridge at Dan-y-Graig Road in Risca, which is working with the University of Wales Newport to provide animal therapy for children with autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

The project was awarded £199,212 in September to pay for an animal education manager and an animal education coordinator who will work on research into the benefits of animal therapy.

Beaufort Community Centre on Beaufort Road in Newport received £171,597 in November, which is being used to employ a community activities and training co-ordinator to deliver community activities in Beechwood over the next three years.

In May, the volunteer-run Shalom Fitness Group was awarded £4,600 to buy sports equipment and fund day-trips for Newport women with mobility problems.

Volunteer Shawn Foster said the funding made a real difference to the 30 women who attend the group's twice-weekly sessions.

She said: "It has really helped improve their physical ability, and encouraged them to go out and meet people and interact with others. Funding like this gives them the opportunity to change their outlook on life."

BIG acting director for Wales John Rose said the latest funding figure showed their awards are having a positive impact in Newport in challenging economic times.

To find out more about the funding available from BIG, call 0300 123 0735 or by visit biglotteryfund.co.uk/wales