A host of community projects across the region will have a reason to smile in the run up to Christmas after receiving their share of a £2 million pot of cash.

The money is being awarded by the Big Lottery Fund and aims to benefit those taking a lead in helping improve their communities.

Projects in Gissing near Diss, King's Lynn and Trimingham in north Norfolk are among those to receive the largest chucks of money as part of the Reaching Communities programme.

The Heart of Gissing organisation has been earmarked for a cash injection of £711,365 for a new village hall which will offer activities including baby and toddlers group, choir and a local heritage group.

The King's Lynn Area Resettlement Support (KLARS) organisation will welcome £455,094 for its work helping people from migrant communities with their legal rights, learning English and finding work.

Emma Humphrey, project manager, said: 'It will enable us to develop and expand the services we provide for immigrant communities, helping them to make a positive contribution to the economic and cultural richness of our area.' Project Manager.

A total of £28,260 will go to the Trimingham Parish Council to help fund a new village hall and community centre.