THESE lucky ladies have scooped £73,258 in a National Lottery draw.

The syndicate - 17 receptionists, doctors and nurses from Great Lumley - were out together on the night they won on February 2 and were not aware of the windfall.

Senior receptionist and syndicate organiser Marian Lindsay said: "We had all been out for a leaving do when the draw was on, so I didn't check the tickets until I got home.

"I thought we had just matched five numbers when I looked at Teletext. I then went upstairs to bed but something made me want to check again."

It was then that she realised they also had the bonus ball. As well as planning another meal out to celebrate, the winners are planning on how they will spend their cash.

Syndicate members above, from left, back, Julie Dryden, Helen King, Violet Brown, Dr Nicola Portergill, Irene Mavin, Janet Holland and Denise Jones with, front, Marian Lindsay and Sue Lindsley.