Bradford Bulls have pledged to continue ploughing cash into the community as the superleague champions celebrate the 25th anniversary of their own lotteries.

Profits of the daily and weekly draws - now hitting £200,000 each year - are used to strengthen the squad, help local charities and promote healthy lifestyles and initiatives.

In the past ten years more than £1 million has been raised to support good causes and improve the team.

The lotteries, which began in 1973, were viewed as a means of raising the profile of the team which was then Bradford Northern. Proceeds have given a boost to a number of Bradford charities and organisations including past Lord Mayor's appeals and hospitals.

They have also paid for rugby league training sessions for boys and girls across the city and a scheme teaching youngsters about honesty and loyalty.

They have even led to the launch of a book in partnership with the Bradford Year of Literary Project which was distributed to schools across the city earlier this year.

Lottery Manager Phil Hellewell, who has been with the organisation for 11 years, said the scheme aimed to fulfil the Bulls message of helping in the community.

"It really is part of the Bulls philosophy that we have a high profile in the community," he said.

"When the players visit schools, you can see how excited the kids get when they tell them to stay fit and healthy or behave well. They just listen and take it in."

Sales co-ordinator Richard Watmough said the proceeds of the lottery stayed in Bradford.

"When people play our lottery they are really helping to provide a better environment for their kids and the city," he said.

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