Wigan neighbours scoop £60,000 on postcode lottery

The residents of Wigan Road, Ashton, landed the prize when their postcode, WN4 9ST, was drawn as the winner of People’s Postcode Lottery’s Street Prize on Saturday.

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Paul O’Donnell, 51, couldn’t believe his eyes when he pulled out his cheque from the golden envelope.

The dad of three said: “This is so surreal – I just can’t believe this is happening! It’s a very welcome surprise.”

Paul plans to spend the windfall on a family reunion in Miami.

He said: “Since my eldest daughter moved to America four years ago the family haven’t all been together at the same time but now I’ll be able to take all the kids away for a really good holiday.

“To be able to do that is just really special.”

Paula Johnson, a 42-year-old family nurse and mum of two, was in disbelief at the size of her prize.

She told the Observer: “I never thought I would win so seeing all the noughts on the end of the cheque is just amazing! “My eldest daughter is off to university this year so now I’ll be able to set her up and we’ll be able to have one final family holiday before she goes!”

Both Paul and Paula love that they are helping to support so many good causes by playing. Paula added: “I follow People’s Postcode Lottery on Twitter and love the charity updates. It’s great to see where the money is going and the difference you’re making.”

The four remaining winners weren’t available to collect their cheques but their prize will be paid straight to their bank account.

People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador, Judie McCourt, offered her congratulations: “Well done to all our winners in Ashton. I love coming to surprise players with their cheques so make sure you’re signed up to play and it could be your door I’m knocking on next!”