Whitley Bay Celebrates £2 Million Prize

There were tears of joy and cheers of triumph at the first Postcode Millions event of 2015 in Whitley Bay on Saturday 31st January. Two players were over the moon to discover that they had won £400,000 each, while another player was just as excited to have won £200,000. Their postcode, NE25 9BB, was revealed as the full winning postcode at the event.

Margery Eccleston, 76, couldn't believe it when she was presented with her £400,000 cheque. "I'm blown away," she exclaimed.

Margery, who plays with two tickets, was joined by her husband Nigel at the event. "I love that I've won with my neighbours, although I didn't know them until today," she said. "My daughter Kaylatz owns the Seacrest Hotel in Whitley Bay, so I'll make sure I'll invite all the winners for a celebratory party soon."

Although overwhelmed with her win, Margery and Nigel are keen to go on a cruise with the money. "We're skint after Christmas, so this has come at a great time," she said. "Between us, we have seven children, 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, so there are plenty of people to spoil."

Kim Lazenby, 59, was equally shocked to be presented with his £400,000 cheque. "It's like a dream," he said. "It's phenomenal."

Kim, who also plays with two tickets, was joined by his partner Jean. He has a good idea on what to spend his winnings on. "I work as a social worker, but I would love to cut back on my hours and concentrate on my art," he said. "This money will allow me to do that, and I'd also love to take a trip to visit my son Cameron in Australia and go out with my other son Ryan to New Zealand, where he lives. The sky is the limit for us."

Michael Parry, 41, couldn't believe he won £200,000 after only signing up as a player in December last year. "It's beginner's luck," he said. Michael's brother David was also a winner on the day and walked away with £5,291. "I feel a bit inferior standing next to him with a smaller cheque," laughed David. "But it is fantastic."

Along with David and his other two brothers, Richard and Steven, Michael is a keen motorcyclist and plans to spend his winnings on a new bike. "I signed up to support charities and am shocked that I've won so quickly," he said. "As well as a new motorbike, I'd like to do more travelling and see a bit more of the world."

The 170 winners who attended the celebration at The Village Urban Resort walked away with cheques ranging from £5,291 to £400,000. A number of supported charities were inattendance, including Children North East, Riding for the Disabled Association and Depaul UK.

Postcode Millions presenter and former TFM Radio presenter Judie McCourt said, "I'm thrilled that the first Postcode Millions event of 2015 is in the North East – my neck of the woods. I've met some fantastic winners today, and they've all had a great time finding out how much they've won, meeting local charities they support and celebrating together."