The funds will be distributed over the next six months with the aim of supporting people throughout the crisis.

This will include funding for activities geared to support communities and assisting organisations overcome any liquidity issues.

Camelot, the company that owns The National Lottery, has described the donation as “the biggest non-governmental contribution to the efforts in local communities to combat the coronavirus.”

Neil Railton, CEO of Camelot, said: “Week in week out, National Lottery players make a huge difference to the lives of people and communities across the UK. Just by buying a ticket, players in every nation have helped raise over £40bn for good cause projects, from supporting our athletes to repairing scout huts.

“Now, more than ever, The National Lottery can play a critical role in supporting our communities as we all face this challenge together. Up to £300m raised by National Lottery players will be helping to fund vital work in local communities at a time when it’s needed the most.”