A GROUP which has been the driving force behind a long-term renovation project at Prescot Cemetery has won the top prize in Tesco's Bags of Help scheme.

The Friends of Prescot Cemetery and Churchyard will now be able to install lecterns outlining the grounds' history after winning the top £12,000 prize after a public vote at Prescot's Tesco store.

The group embarked on a mission three years ago to transform the neglected space next to Prescot Parish Church into a safe, clean and welcoming place for visitors.

Tireless volunteers meet every Saturday afternoon to help maintain the grounds, and its achievements have included the creation a baby memorial garden and being awarded with Green Flag status.

The group beat off competition from Stadt Moers Park, Whiston and St Basil's Primary School in Hough Green, Widnes to get the top grant enabling the project to take place.

"We were totally overwhelmed with all the people in Prescot that voted for us," said secretary of the Friends, Jennifer Chadwick.

"There has been more than 300 comments on social media about us getting it as well. It's great to know that people are getting behind us.

"The lecterns are so expensive so the whole of the money will go towards them. The fund means we can do a proper job and not just have some cheap old ones that may get vandalised.

"The history of the place is absolutely amazing and we are uncovering more and more graves and a lot are covered up."

Jennifer added: "The fact we are going to get the Shakespeare theatre in Prescot, it's all part of it and adds to the tourism value in Prescot."