Newhaven residents win £30k each on postcode lottery

People's Postcode Lottery ambassador Danyl Johnson with winners Christine Wickham and Llse Schneider. Photograph: Philip Reeson

The neighbours in Lee Way were announced as winners with the People’s Postcode Lottery on Saturday (February 8) when BN9 9SR proved lucky.

Christine Wickham, 68, was one of the four to receive the cash prize from People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador Danyl Johnson.

She said: “Our son Nicky is a big practical joker, so I thought it was a wind up.

People's Postcode Lottery ambassador Danyl Johnson with Christine and Jez Wickham. Photograph: Philip Reeson

“When you came to the door, I couldn’t believe it. It was a wonderful surprise; it took my breath away. It’s my birthday next week too!”

Her husband Jez was also at home when she received the news. He said: “Lovely jubbly. I’m overjoyed. We can go shed shopping! I need a new shed… and a holiday!”

Mrs Wickham added: “He’s gobsmacked, and that takes a lot.”

Llse Schneider, 68, also won £30,000.

Winner Llse Schneider and Danyl Johnson. Photograph: Philip Reeson

She said: “I thought I was going to faint. This never happens but it happened to me, and it was a big cheque!

“We’ve had tragedies in the family over the last few years and I think all of us could do with a little break, so it means a lot. It will do a lot of good, especially with my daughter being ill.

“I always said once she comes out the other side, we can go on a big family holiday, so this really means a lot. We’ve been thinking about somewhere like Cancun where we can go all-inclusive and just help ourselves.”

The two other residents were not available to receive their £30,000 in person, according to People’s Postcode Lottery.

Ambassador Danyl Johnson said: “It was lovely to meet Llse and Christine and give them both big cheques.

“They are both very worthy winners and I’m over the moon for them. I hope Llse and her family enjoy a well-deserved holiday, and Christine can help Jez buy the shed of his dreams!”

A minimum of 32 per cent of ticket sales goes directly to charities and players are said to have helped raise more than £500 million to date for causes.

Saturday’s draw was promoted on behalf of Postcode Local Trust, which provides funding for projects in Great Britain that focus on improving biodiversity and green spaces, increasing community access to outdoor spaces, combating climate change, and promoting sustainability.