Big Win For Little Thorpe

Residents in County Durham are celebrating after sharing £2 Million thanks to People's Postcode Lottery.

One lucky player scooped the lion's share of the prize pot when SR8 3UU in Little Thorpe was revealed as the full winning postcode in the October Postcode Millions. The winner, who was unable to attend the event, had invited his parents, Mari and Robert Place, to collect his £400,000 cheque. "When we were asked to collect this cheque, we only really expected it to be £1,000. As the event went on, the cheques seemed to get larger but we still didn't quite believe that it would be anywhere near as much as £400,000," said Robert.

"I know we're biased, but we couldn't think of a more deserving winner. We're not players ourselves but we're going home now to sign up, particularly after learning more about the local projects and charities that receive support. Hopefully some of this good luck will rub off," Robert continued.

Stanley Golightly, who celebrates his 90th birthday next year, was over the moon to be awarded £82,650. One word captured the local resident's delight - "hallelujah!" he exclaimed.

A total of 55 players were part of a People's Postcode Lottery celebration which saw residents in the SR8 3 postcode sector winning prizes ranging from £2,755 to £400,000.

One winner, John Rand, drove away a brand new BMW one series as well as pocketing a cheque for £27,550. "I've always wanted a BMW," he said. "My 22 year old son, Anthony, is already trying to figure out how much it will cost to get him on the insurance."

Winners and their families were invited to an exclusive cheque presentation at Shotton Hall in Peterlee.

This is not the first time that a Postcode Millions event has hit County Durham. In April 2011, residents in Billingham shared a prize pot of £2.5 Million.

Mayor of Peterlee, Councillor Ron Curtis, and Mayoress of Peterlee, Mrs Elizabeth Curtis, were celebrating with the winners. "Today has helped so many ordinary people's lives. It's so good for the area. We now plan to sign up to play People's Postcode Lottery along with our entire family - I wish we had done it sooner."

One of the charities at today's event was Daisy Chain, a charity supporting autistic children and their families. Chief Executive Judith Simpson said, "Today was great to meet some of the players face to face and thank them personally for their support. They've raised over £430,000 helping to support so many more families in the area."

People's Postcode Lottery Ambassador and rugby legend Scott Quinnell said, "Everyone has had a great day at the beautiful Shotton Hall - despite the typical November weather! Winners today have been blown away by what they've won and it's been great celebrating with them. We've also had some of the fantastic charities that are supported by players here today who have been able to showcase the great work that is achieved though player's support."

You could win cash prizes every day of the year with People's Postcode Lottery. Players can win £10,000 every week and there are draws for £100,000, Dream Holidays and a brand new BMW every month. We have thousands of lucky winners every week. Sign up today and see what you can win!