LotterySK has delivered early Christmas presents to two lucky ticket holders scooping big wins within a fortnight, plus celebrated the sign-up of its 100th good cause.

South Kesteven District Council’s community lottery’s first big pre-Christmas winner was Samantha Underwood-Harley, with a £2,000 windfall from a ticket purchased in support of local charity Kesteven Rideability.

Samantha’s son Thomas won this year’s award for the most improved rider at the Riding for the Disabled Centre at Hough on the Hill, near Grantham.

“Kesteven Rideability does amazing work with my son and for so many others,” said Samantha. “It is absolutely incredible.”

LotterySK tickets have so far contributed £312 towards Rideability funds, now targeted at purchasing a new equine simulator for riders.

In Stamford, a supporter of the 2nd Stamford Town Scout Group also won £2,000, and last week’s draw saw a £250 winning ticket for a Grantham ticket buyer, with funds going into the Community Fund pot.

Stamford in Bloom, launched two years ago and adding floral colour to the town in both summer and winter, is LotterySK’s 100th sign up.

Cllr Kelham Cooke, Leader of SKDC and  a champion of LotterySK since its launch, said how delighted he was to see good causes hit the 100 mark and lottery ticket holders rewarded for their support.

“We have managed to help raise funds for a huge range of good causes, each making a distinct difference to their community, and what a great time to see some big wins for local people. It proves the value of LotterySK as a truly local lottery.”

Good causes that operate in South Kesteven can join LotterySK free of charge and start benefiting when their supporters buy tickets. It is open to all not-for-profit organisations, charities, clubs and school parent teacher associations.

More than 100,000 tickets have been sold since the community lottery launch in September 2018, with 1,000 people playing each week. Local community groups receive 60% of the ticket income and every week there is a chance for ticket holders to win £25,000.

To buy £1 tickets in support of a favourite cause, or to find out more and register a community group, club or charity, visit www.lotterysk.co.uk