Oldham gran Gillian wins Royal Mail's magical card prize draw

Gillian plans to spend her £500 winnings on “Christmas presents and treats” for her family

Oldhamer Gillian Thompson has been left “gobsmacked and speechless” after winning Royal Mail’s Magical Card Prize Draw, which celebrates the joy of sending Christmas cards.

Gillian, who works part-time as an administrator, plans to spend her £500 winnings on “Christmas presents and treats” for her family, including her daughter and her four-year-old granddaughter.

“I couldn’t believe it – I was absolutely speechless for once!” said Gillian.

“I’ve never won anything before, just the odd little voucher.

"I love sending Christmas cards – it’s traditional and still gives me that thrill of seeing what’s come through the door.

"It reminds me of when I was growing up.”

Gillian’s winning card was sent to her pen friend Bethan, a friendship that began years ago when their parents knew each other.

Despite moving away, the two have kept in touch through letters and cards.

The Magical Card Prize Draw ran from 1 to 24 December, with Royal Mail giving away over £500,000 in prizes to more than 1,000 winners.

Each prize is shared between the sender and recipient of the winning card, including daily £10,000 prizes and a bumper £100,000 giveaway on Christmas Eve.

Richard Travers, Managing Director of Letters at Royal Mail, said: “Sending cards is a wonderful way to spread festive cheer, and we’re thrilled to make it even more special with our Magical Card Prize Draw. 

"Congratulations to Gillian and all our winners!”

For more information about the campaign and last posting dates for Christmas, visit: www.royalmailmagic.com

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