The final push to boost Bradford's lottery bid for a stunning Park at the Heart saw the number of people backing the bid soar above 30,000.

A total of 31,564 people backed the £24.5m bid, with more than 10,000 of those adding their support in the last week before the bid was submitted to lottery chiefs.

Many people took advantage of a final chance to sign a petition of support during a send-off party for the bid which coincided with the Queen's visit on May 24.

Initially, 3,000 people from across all communities, ages and backgrounds had their say on the design and use of the park.

Following their input, more greenery, dramatic fountains, a visitor centre with café and maintenance endowment were incorporated into the final plans.

People were then asked to Back the Bid' via text, phone, post, online, the bid-o-meter or petition.

The city park will feature a mirror pool and include infrastructure to hold major public events, children's play areas, quiet reflection areas, bars, cafes and restaurants.

Councillor Andrew Mallinson, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for regeneration, said: "I am delighted that over 30,000 people have backed the bid and would like to thank everyone for their ongoing enthusiasm.

"The scheme has received overwhelming support from local people who have both backed and helped shape the park's designs, demonstrating support from across the district.

"The commitment shared among the people of Bradford will strengthen the bid for lottery funding, and hopefully result in a positive outcome when a decision is made."

Bradford is competing against 22 other schemes and a decision from the Big Lottery Fund is expected in October. One of the most eye-catching rivals is the restoration of historic Lowther Castle, on the eastern fringes of the Lake district.

The project would transform the ruined castle with a 1,500-seat amphitheatre and an underground gallery featuring exhibitions from the Tate Gallery.

In Blackpool, there are proposals to launch an international design competition for the central promenade, while Salford City Council wants to develop a walkway, complete with landmark bridge, on the banks of the River Irwell.

Meanwhile, the Landmark Wales project aims to mark major entry points into the country with large pieces of art to create eye-catching gateway features.

The centrepiece would be a 270ft-high sculpture in Holyhead, Anglesey, to welcome passengers arriving at the port from Ireland.

Also vying for the cash are three projects in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where plans to establish a Titanic-themed visitor attraction on a former ship yard will compete against proposals for two new public parks.

Four of the projects competing for the grant involve the creation of new waterways, one of which would see a new canal built between Milton Keynes and Bedford.

The restoration of Lydney Docks, in the Forest of Dean, is also proposed, as is a £25 million cultural village in Carmarthenshire, Wales.

A beach pavilion would form the centrepiece of a proposed regeneration scheme in Girvan, South Ayrshire, Scotland.