The former star has launched the hunt for Coventry’s game changers

Strictly FOSTER star and Invictus Games gold medalist JJ Chalmers has launched a hunt for Coventry game changers.

To celebrate the National Lottery’s 30th birthday, JJ is looking for 30 people who have contributed over the past three decades with the help of the National Lottery.

In Coventry, since the first National Lottery draw on 19 November 1994, £195,232,774 has been raised for good causes through 2,648 individual grants, significantly benefiting arts, heritage, sports and community organisations.

JJ urges the public to nominate exceptional people as National Lottery players.

The 37-year-old, a former lance corporal with 42 Commando in the Royal Marines, was seriously injured in an IED blast in Afghanistan in 2011.

Despite facing a near double arm amputation and other critical injuries, he triumphed over adversity to win a gold medal at the 2014 Invictus Games.

He has since established a successful career in broadcasting, becoming the first disabled presenter to host the Olympics and actively supporting the charity Help for Heroes and the Invictus Games as a patron and ambassador.

JJ said: “During my own journey of recovery and involvement with the Invictus Games, I have met countless unsung heroes who work tirelessly to improve the lives of the people around them.

“It’s important to celebrate these inspirational people and thank them for all they do. If you know someone who has done something amazing with National Lottery funding over the last 30 years, then please take the time to nominate them as a National Lottery Game Changer.”

It will recognize outstanding people in the Art, Community, Heritage and Sport categories.

Thirty individuals will be celebrated in the fall with a national recognition event highlighting their incredible efforts. Anyone who has received funding from the National Lottery or who is part of a project funded by the National Lottery is eligible to be nominated.

Visit: lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/gamechangers to nominate, entries must be received by midday on June 17.