Rejoicing In Rainham

Two Rainham players were delighted this week after winning £25,000 each when their postcode, ME8 7QZ, was drawn as a winner in this week's Saturday Street Prize.

"I couldn't believe it," said Mary Friday. "It was really wonderful to be surprised, and I think my other neighbours were peeking through the window!"

Mary, who has been playing since June last year, already has some initial plans for her winnings. "I want to set up my own skincare company, so I've been studying at home and updating my qualifications," she said. "This win will make it so much easier."

Mary was joined by her husband Andy to be presented with her cheque, and he is quite keen to help Mary spend her winnings.

"My husband's car recently broke down, so I'll buy him a new one," she said. "I need a car too, so our first stop with be the showrooms."

Mary decided to sign up after seeing a TV commercial. "I thought I'd give it a go," she said. "I like that everyone in the street can win if they play, and it's so easy to play."

Mary's neighbour, Jacqueline Poulton was also thrilled to win £25,000. "We didn't really know each other before the win, but I'm sure we will now," said Mary.

Jacqueline, who works in a bank, was thrilled with her win and has an idea of what to spend it on already. "I've had a new kitchen sitting in the garage for years, so we can finally get it fitted!" she said.

As well as house repairs, Jacqueline is keen to get a family holiday booked. "I love visiting the Norfolk Broads with my husband Wayne and daughter Jade," she said. "It will be a fishing holiday, and with this money, we will be able to get a better boat."

People's Postcode Lottery Street Prize presenter Judie McCourt said, "I really enjoyed meeting Jacqueline and Mary and presenting them with their cheques. They both sound like they have exciting things to spend the money on, and I hope they both celebrate soon."

Players have raised over £61 Million for charities and good causes across Great Britain and internationally. One local charity, Dandelion Time, was awarded £8,000 from players for their pottery project. Based on a farm in Kent, Dandelion Time works with vulnerable and disadvantaged children aged 7-16 who are experiencing serious emotional and behavioural difficulties arising from trauma, abuse and neglect.