Thanks a million

Toasting the first million . . . hospice lottery jackpot winner Audrey Laycock (left) celebrates with hospice fundraisers (back, from the left) Karen Maloney, lottery assistant, appeals co-ordinator Brian Hurst, lottery manager Joanne Penketh and some of the people who benefit from Dr Kershaw’s services (front, from the left) Dorothy West, Joan Walker and Kathleen Quigley

HOSPICE LOTTERY HITS FUND-RAISING MILESTONE
DR Kershaw’s Hospice has hit the jackpot, after raking in a magic million from its own lottery.

Launched seven-and-a-half years ago, the lottery scheme has been a huge support to the hospice, thanks to the thousands of local people who take part every week.

With more than 5,400 players, lottery supporters come from all corners of Oldham — all with a weekly chance of winning a £1,000 jackpot or one of five £50 prizes.

One top prize winner who helped push the proceeds to the £1 million mark is Audrey Laycock, and she raised a glass in celebrations in the hospice gardens.

She is among more than 3,500 lucky jackpot winners over the lottery’s lifetime, and spoke of her surprise and pleasure at getting a telephone call informing her of their win.

“I was over the moon when I received a call to say I had won £1,000,” she said.

“I am pleased to be able to support the hospice in this small way.”

It costs £4,700 a day to run the Royton hospice, which means the £1 million raised by the lottery has kept it going for 212 days.

Toasting its success, and looking forward to the next million, Joanne Penketh, lottery manager, said, “It’s fantastic news that the hospice lottery is doing so well.

“It forms a crucial part of the fundraising effort required to keep the hospice open and providing its vital services for the residents of Oldham and the surrounding districts.

“I would like to say a huge thanks to all the staff, volunteers, businesses, lottery players and members of the community who have supported the hospice lottery since its launch in October, 2003.

“Here’s to the next million!”

Anyone who wants to join the lottery, or take out a second number, should contact the lottery office on 0161-624 9213.