SCOTLAND'S biggest charity grantmaker has received a boost of £75,000 to swell its national flood appeal.

Foundation Scotland has benefitted from the major cash boost from the People’s Postcode Lottery, taking the total raised so far to more than £250,000.

The Foundation will distribute funds to support local relief efforts such as support, information and care services to community organisations affected by the floods.

The Emergency Award has been made available to help charities and organisations across all parts of Scotland affected by flooding and grants of up to £5000 are available.

Foundation Scotland organises the Caledonian Challenge, Scotland's toughest endurance event, which is backed by The Herald.

The charity's Flood Recovery Appeal launched on January 8 with funding from a number of Foundation Scotland's clients.

Giles Ruck, chief executive of Foundation Scotland said, “We are delighted to receive this substantial boost to our appeal taking us a quarter of a way to our £1 million target. We would like to thank players of People’s Postcode Lottery for their generous support.

“Whilst many charities and organisations are coping amazingly well with the immediate crisis, community groups such as local flood prevention groups need support now and also to build resilience for the future.

"This significant sum will be invaluable in achieving that. We would encourage organisations to apply for funding through our website."

Clara Govier, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “Disasters don’t just happen abroad but can happen in Great Britain as well. Hopefully, the organisations receiving grants will be able to help victims of this disaster begin to rebuild their communities.

"Players of People’s Postcode Lottery will be happy to see the money they have raised is being used to help flood-affected people right here in Scotland. ”