A FAMILY is celebrating after winning a £60,000 jackpot which will ensure they have an extra special Christmas.

Angela Lowes, from Hipswell, near Catterick Garrison, was amazed to discover she had scooped the windfall on the Health Lottery – something she said she does not play often.

Mrs Lowes said: “When the Health Lottery first started I won £50 but I still didn’t play that regularly.

“Then on the December 5 draw I checked my numbers at Tesco and realised I’d matched five numbers – I had to ring up the lottery and wait to hear back that my win was confirmed.

“I didn’t know until they rang me back how much I’d won – I couldn’t believe it when they told me how much, it’s wonderful.”

Mrs Lowes, who has two sons living at home and two grown-up daughters, said she was looking forward to spoiling her family this Christmas.

“We’ve all been out for a nice meal to celebrate. I’ve already decided to share the money with my family, that’s the most important thing for me.

“Then I’ll just be making a few home improvements and then putting the rest towards my mortgage – it’s a great feeling to know I’ve got that extra bit of security now.”

The Health Lottery benefits several health and wellbeing organisations in North Yorkshire, including the East Thirsk Community Association, which recently received more than £45,000 for a new 24 month project to deliver 240 sessions of pre-school play group activities and support to parents in the Hambleton Estate area of Thirsk.

Richmondshire Volunteer Centre in Colburn has also recently received almost £50,000 to establish a community cafe with lunch and tea time clubs.

A spokesman for Health Lottery said: “So far, money raised by HealthLevel Community Interest Company (CIC), which aims to tackle health inequalities in North Yorkshire, has meant funding of £955,028 for health related good causes in the area, with more to come.

“HealthLevel CIC’s first lottery draw was held in November 2011. One of the great things about our Health CIC is the speed with which the money gets directly to where it’s needed.”

Mrs Lowes added: “I don’t know if I will play the Health Lottery again – I would feel guilty to get another big win – but I would definitely encourage other people to have a go.”