The National Lottery has hit the £50bn milestone raised for good causes since its launch 30 years ago, boosted by tickets sold through independent retailers.
Operator Allwyn, which took over the licence from Camelot in February, said the funding has gone towards 700,000 individual projects across the UK.
This is thanks to the “pivotal role” that 570 independent retailers who have been selling the National Lottery since its inception have had, including Raj Patel, owner of News Bit in Bushey, Hertfordshire. He has raised over £700,000 for good causes since 1994.
“Whenever I hear that over £30m is raised every week for good causes, it makes me happy that by selling tickets and scratchcards in my store, I’m helping in some way,” he said.
Brian McLister, owner of McLister’s Store in Ballycastle, has raised over £650,000 in the National Lottery’s 30-year lifespan.
He said: “I feel proud that we’ve been able to make a difference. We’ve always strived to serve our local community and to help wherever we can.
“It’s great to be able to see the benefit of National Lottery funding in your area. Our local museum has been completely regenerated thanks to the funding they’ve received. It feels good to know that we’ve helped in some way.”
The landmark figures come as Allwyn also revealed that National Lottery retailers have now earned over £8bn in sales commission since the first draw on Saturday 19 November 1994.
In addition, more than 7,400 millionaires have been created, with £95bn awarded in prizes during that time.
Allwyn’s interim retail director James Dunbar said: “By selling billions of tickets, and continuing to be the majority sales channel, it’s hard to ignore just how central National Lottery retailers have been in helping players raise £50bn for good causes since 1994.
“They’ve now earned over £8bn in sales commission along the way, which further demonstrates the incredible impact of the National Lottery on the UK over the last 30 years. We would like to thank retailers for their amazing commitment and support over the last three decades.”
No comments yet