AN ORGANISATION that collects Cornish memories in pictures and words has been awarded £225,000 to expand its work.
Pool-based Azook Community Interest Company will use the Heritage Lottery Fund grant to put some of Cornwall's finest audio-visual collections online for the first time.
The company has been sharing film, audio and photographs with Cornish schools for some time, but the Re:collect project will allow them to be exhibited worldwide via the internet.
The project is expected to create more than £750,000-worth of heritage community and education activities, designed to directly benefit Cornish communities.
Richard Bellamy, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund South West, said: "Much of our local heritage, especially people's memories and stories, are at great risk of being lost and forgotten as time goes by.
"Projects like Re:collect are the perfect solution. Bringing together and digitising this collection of Cornish history will mean that there is a lasting record of the people and events that made the area what it is today. The array of community events and activities will ensure that everyone will have the chance to get involved and play a part in protecting their past for the future."
Supporters of the project are delighted, particularly the owners of the collections who are keen to share their archives with the public.
Broadcaster Ted Gundry said: "Cornish heritage is second to none and our audio-visual collections are very important. With them we can hear the voices of real people and see the faces of characters who lived in our communities.
"I am delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has recognised the value of carrying out this work before it is too late and I look forward to sharing my collection with Cornish communities at home and overseas."
Azook is now looking for a commercial partner to help launch the project later this year.
Claire White, Azook director, said: "This three-year project provides real opportunities for a business that is passionate about Cornish cultural heritage to make a difference and benefit our communities."
To offer commercial support, call 0845 0509429 or e-mail enquiries@azook.org.uk