THAMESMEAD and Erith MP Teresa Pearce revealed she is “thrilled” a bid to transform an old munitions site into a nature reserve has won £50,000 through public votes. 

The community project nabbed the Lottery funding after getting the biggest number of votes out of the shortlisted organisations featured in the People’s Millions TV show.

The finals of the programme, run by the Big Lottery Fund and ITV, was broadcast on Tuesday evening (Nov 26) and at 6pm last night the winner was revealed.

Now the Wild about Thamesmead project will transform the Tump 53 site in Bentham Way into a beautiful, rural retreat.

Charity Trust Thamesmead, which made the application for the cash with the London Wildlife Trust and Gallions Housing Association, revealed their delight last night.

Staff tweeted from the ‏@TrustThamesmead account last night: “Sorry we couldn't announce the results any earlier, we were embargoed until 6pm and now want to shout it from the rooftops.

"Thamesmead won!!”

This Is Local London: Wild about Thamesmead project could win £50,000 tonight

Ms Pearce told News Shopper: "I am thrilled. Thamesmead rarely wins anything so to get this is amazing.

"The number only came out on Tuesday and so we had 24 hours to get everybody to call. 

"Volunteers put leaflets through people’s doors and children told their parents to ring.

"It’s not just for the children – many people live in flats so to have access to real countryside will be great. It’s going to be a great facility."

Director of London regions at London Wildlife Trust Gareth Morgan said: "We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and support shown for Tump 53. 

"Winning a People's Millions award will allow us to really invest in this unique site, enriching the local wildlife and enhancing the lives of those who live around Tump 53." 

Head of partnerships and engagement for Trust Thamesmead Lucy Webb said: “We are delighted to see this opportunity to bring such an important community resource back into regular use. 

"More importantly, this win demonstrates what can be achieved when the local community joins together in collective action and we want to thank Thamesmead’s residents and the wider Thamesmead community for coming out in force on Tuesday and voting for Wild about Thamesmead”.

Funding will open the Gallions-owned site up to local families, school groups and volunteers, allowing them to enjoy its woodland, glade, pond, and reed-fringed moat.