First winner of newest North East jackpot receives cheque
THE first Geordie Jackpot winner received the Rolls Royce treatment to pick up her winning cheque.
Sharon Armstrong, of Wallsend, won the inaugural lottery draw on Saturday.
The 40-year-old was taken to Newcastle’s Castle Keep to be presented with her £1,000 cheque by world champion triple jumper, Olympic gold medallist and North East athletics legend Jonathan Edwards.
NE1 started the new online lottery scheme which gives Geordies the chance to win £25,000 and help boost Newcastle at the same time.
Sharon said: “I have never won anything before so it was such a lovely surprise and doubly special to know that I’m the first ever winner.
“I bought my Geordie Jackpot ticket after hearing about the lottery through NE1’s email updates on what’s happening in the city.
“Knowing it was a charitable lottery and that the money raised would benefit the city and disadvantaged kids, I was happy to sign up and support it on a weekly basis.”
Sharon, who works at a residential home for people with brain injuries in Wallsend, doesn’t know what she’ll spend the cash on but will enjoy it.
She added: “It is my partner’s birthday at the end of this month so I might treat us both to a night away, a really nice meal or use it to pay for a Christmas to remember.”
In addition to cash payouts, the scheme includes bonus prizes with money-can’t-buy experiences and themed rewards to coincide with NE1 events and activities throughout the year.
Sean Bullick, chief executive of NE1 Ltd, said: “Handing over the first Geordie Jackpot cheque is a historical moment – we are delighted that Sharon is our first ever Geordie Jackpot winner.
“The response from the general public has been phenomenal – Geordies are really showing their pride for the city and playing their part in how Newcastle develops in the future.
“We love that the public is getting involved, investing in the their city and having their say in what new additions they would like to see in Newcastle.
“And not forgetting the £25,000 jackpot which is up for grabs and a guaranteed winner of £1,000 every week.”
To be in with a chance of winning play the Geordie Jackpot online and buy tickets at www.geordiejackpot.co.uk before midnight on the Friday prior to the draw each Saturday.