A group of nine lucky neighbours are sharing £300,000 after winning the People's Postcode Lottery.

Eight residents living in Saxon Shore, Kemsley, each landed £30,000 on Saturday with a ninth doubling the prize to £60,000 with the help of two tickets.

Residents win a share of £300,000

Among them was 69-year-old Alan Kite who picked up one of the prizes, presented by the organisation's ambassador Jeff Brazier.

He said he will be using the cash to go on the trip of a lifetime exploring family history with his wife Lindsey.

Mr Kite said: "My father-in-law was born in Australia but moved over to the UK when he was young.

"He then joined the army and was in the Essex regiment. During the war he was on a boat to Singapore and stopped off at Burma where he was stationed for a while.

"We’ve always wanted to re-trace his footsteps, so we’re going to visit Australia and Burma. It’s really a once in a lifetime trip!"

The retired father-of-four and grandfather-of-nine added: "This isn’t just for me, it’s for the children as well.

"We like to help them out when we can, and this will allow us to keep doing so. I’ve had calls from the grandkids already asked what I’m going to buy them!”

Fellow resident, bank worker Puja Kapoor also said she was over the moon at windfall.

The 38-year-old mother-of-two, who is married to husband Rishi, said: "My husband’s father was born in Kenya so we’re going to save some money up and finally visit as a family.

"I’m thinking we will go for two and a half weeks and we will definitely be going on safari!

"After my friend won, she told me about all the charities that receive money when you play. When you think about a lottery you don’t think really about charity, so it’s great to know I am giving back."

Yet another £30,000 was awarded to 49-year-old Debby Hughes.

She said she was shocked at winning the prize and would put the money towards her 50th birthday.

She added: "I’ve not slept since I found out I won! I’ve been driving my neighbours mad and my mum insane!

"It’s just an amazing feeling. It’s lovely knowing that you can do things for other people. There are local charities I’d like to do things for so it’s really nice to have the opportunity.

"I have a big birthday coming up, the big 5-0 is heading my way so I can plan something really good for that. I’m going to get so drunk on New Year’s Eve!"

Mr Brazier said: "It’s always nice having such a big group of people winning together.

"The atmosphere on the street was contagious, I was sad to leave.

"A big congratulations to everyone who received cheques in Kemsley, enjoy it and treat yourselves."

Local projects have benefitted thanks to player support too.

Last year, Royal British Legion Industries received £18,000 to run inclusive activities to tackle isolation of veterans and local people.

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