Hooray For Hornchurch

A costume maker from Hornchurch and her sister have both scooped £30,000 with their lucky postcode. Nicola, who is busy making pantomime costumes for the festive season at the Queen's Theatre, lives with her sister Sian.

She and Sian got a knock at the door from Street Prize Presenter Matt Johnson, who surprised them with the good news.

The sisters' postcode, RM11 1GU, was drawn as the winner of Saturday's Street Prize.

Nicola said, "I am amazed at how much we've won and I'm really excited by the thought of spending it. 

"I'm going to be sensible with half of the money. I bought this house with my sister and we've agreed to both put money aside to pay off some of the mortgage.

"I've been making costumes for the theatre for eight years now and it would be great to upgrade my sewing machine. I'd also like a nice holiday somewhere and a new laptop."

Sian was the first sister to sign up to play People's Postcode Lottery. After opening her golden envelope, she said, "It's so amazing to win. With my winnings I'll probably go to New York. There'll be some generous Christmas presents for the rest of the family this year too. Playing People's Postcode Lottery is easy to do and it's a good way to give to charities."

Congratulating the sisters, Matt Johnson added, "What a wonderful day we've had with Sian and Nicola. They're absolutely ecstatic about their win. If you would like to play, sign up now and maybe one day I'll be coming round to your house with my red clothes and a golden cheque."

To date, over £246 Million has been raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery for more than 3,000 good causes across Great Britain and internationally.

A local cause near Hornchurch that has received support from players is Rainham Cricket Club. The club was awarded £2,000 this year to upgrade its facilities.

Also this weekend, there were celebrations in Kennington for thirteen neighbours when TN24 9LW was drawn in Sunday's Street Prize. There were smiling faces too in Lancaster as neighbours shared £3 Million in November's Postcode Millions.