A Treliske project that helps change young people’s lives through surfing is appealing for local votes as it strives for nationwide acclaim in this year’s National Lottery Awards.

The Wave Project project saw off stiff competition from 620 organisations to reach the public voting stage in this year’s awards – the annual search for the UK’s favourite Lottery-funded projects. It is competing against six other projects to be crowned the winner of the sport category.

Winners of the seven categories will get a £2,000 cash prize, a trophy and attend a star-studded awards ceremony, broadcast on BBC One in September.

The Wave Project supports the development of traumatised and socially isolated children through surfing. It helps them feel calmer, less anxious and more positive about life, and boosts their confidence and social skills.

Since launching in January 2013, it has helped transform the lives of over 200 children and young people who are at risk of developing mental health problems. The project reaches them by offering sessions that focus on the benefits of being outside and having fun with friends, rather than examining their problems.

Joe Taylor, founder and CEO, said: "We're delighted to have reached the finals of The National Lottery Awards. Lottery money has really helped us to change the lives of many young people. It’s easy to vote, so we're hoping people support us, as it would be a fantastic reward for everyone involved in the project to receive national recognition for their hard work.”

To vote for The Wave Project go to www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards or call 0844 836 9696 and follow the campaign on twitter: hashtag #NLAwards. Voting runs until midnight on July 29.