Local lottery's boost for good causes

Middlesbrough Lottery launched six months ago and is now giving a much-needed fundraising boost to more than 50 causes across the town.

Charities, sports clubs, dance schools, community centres and other good causes are now receiving a direct cash injection from lottery ticket sales, which will go towards general running costs, equipment and other necessities.

Middlesbrough Council, which helps to promote the lottery and get good causes on board on behalf of the national operator, is now inviting more worthy causes to take part.

Domestic abuse charity My Sisters Place is one of the leading beneficiaries of the Middlesbrough Lottery, having raised over £1,500 so far.

The charity's CEO Lesley Storey said: "Money that comes in through the lottery is absolute gold to any charity.

"We could not operate and would not exist if it wasn't for things like the Middlesbrough Lottery."

When a player buys a Middlesbrough Lottery ticket, 60% of their ticket price - more than double what the National Lottery gives - goes to good causes that benefit their local community.

Middlesbrough Deputy Mayor Councillor Mieka Smiles said: "We're delighted to be celebrating the six month anniversary of the Middlesbrough Lottery.

"Lotteries are a fun and effective way for causes to raise much-needed funds in these difficult times.

"Our very own Middlesbrough Lottery has gone from strength to strength, and with over 50 causes now signed up, it's great to see the people of Middlesbrough showing their community spirit.

"If you help run a local club or charity, or you or your kids are part of a local sports team or dance society for example, we're encouraging you to get them signed up to the lottery.

"It's a free and easy way to raise funds for your organisation while supporting Middlesbrough in the process."

Tickets for the Middlesbrough Lottery start from just £1. When a player buys a ticket they are able to select a local charity or good cause to support.

The cause of their choice receives 50% of their ticket value, and an extra 10p goes towards the upkeep of much-loved cultural activities organised by Middlesbrough Council such as the Orange Pip Market.

Lucky ticketholders have the chance to win up to £25,000 every week through the online draw each Saturday.

The Middlesbrough Lottery is externally managed by Gatherwell, who run over 80 community lotteries for local authorities across the UK.

Gatherwell's community lotteries currently raise more than £5 million for grassroots community groups and good causes.

Anyone wishing to sign up a local cause or buy a ticket should go to the 'Are you a good cause?' section of the website or email [email protected] for more information.

The Middlesbrough Lottery can also be followed on Facebook @middlesbroughlottery and Twitter via @mbrolottery.