Fight to preserve our heritage is more important than ever

HERITAGE makes us who we are and defines where we live. I live in King's Lynn and it has an incredible history. This unassuming port town has no fewer than three museums, a medieval gateway, three medieval churches and some of the finest Georgian street architecture in England.

- Simon Thurley

These give "Lynn" its identity, but its heritage runs even deeper. It's the traditions, stories, songs and people who once walked its streets that are at the heart of heritage.

It's echoes of the past that make it what it is today, giving a sense of pride and belonging.

The UK has an amazing heritage. Whether it's our historic villages, towns and cities, incredible works of art, towering castles, lovingly tended parks or the glorious countryside, home to incredible flora and fauna.

One of the strengths of the National Lottery Heritage Fund is that, from its inception, it has always been open to defining what heritage is. In fact, we don't define it.

We ask you to tell us what you think is important, what should be protected and preserved. From historic buildings and our industrial legacy to the environment, from museum collections to traditions and stories - heritage can be anything from the past that you value and want to pass on.

NO ONE understands this better than the people and communities involved in the 51,000 projects we've funded.

Next year the National Lottery will be 30 years old. When you buy your ticket, a portion of that money goes directly to UK good causes.