Launch of Vale Lottery scheme

Former EastEnders actress and Waterside Theatre panto star Gillian Wright joined some of those who will benefit from the lottery, as well as district councillor Janet Blake for the launch of the Vale Lottery at The Gateway on Friday morning.

So far, 40 good causes have signed up to the lottery while more than 200 tickets have already been bought ahead of the first draw later this month.

Disability groups, animal charities, sports clubs, theatre groups and schools are among the organisations set to benefit thanks to the lottery, one of the first of its kind in the country.

Under the scheme, the good causes that take part have have their own webpage where their supporters can sign up.

Fifty pence in every pound goes directly to that good cause while an additional eight pence goes to the general good cause fund, administered by the district council.

Those without a favourite cause can choose to just support the general fund if they wish, as this would then receive the 58p in the pound.

The rest of the money goes towards running costs and the prize fund, meaning the district council does not take a penny.

Actress Gillian Wright who played The Fairy Godmother during Dick Whittington and his Cat, the 2011 Christmas pantomime at the theatre, attended the launch in her role as an ambassador for Medical Detection Dogs.

She said: “I see this event as a wonderful opportunity for many charities to receive funds across the Vale.

“I hope you’ll play.

“Good luck everybody!”

Cllr Janet Blake, cabinet member for business transformation added: “This is a very exciting day for Aylesbury Vale. I’m really hopeful that the residents of the Vale will get on board and help the causes of their choice to raise much needed funds to continue their good work in our community.”

Those who sign up to take part in the lottery before November 28, which is the date of the first draw, will be put into a special prize draw where they could win an iPad and panto tickets.

Good causes and those who wish to take part should visit www.valelottery.co.uk.