A jackpot of £25,000 is up for grabs as it has been confirmed that Watford will have its very own lottery.

Players have a one in 50 chance of winning a prize, ranging from the £25,000 to £1,000, £250, £25 or three free lottery tickets, when it is launched later this year.

Each lottery ticket will cost £1, with 60% of revenue from ticket sales to be directed towards local causes, 20% will be allocated to the prize pool, and the remaining 20% will be used for administrative and operational expenses.

Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “The Watford Lottery represents a true win-win scenario, providing local organisations with an innovative means of raising funds to continue their vital work in the community, while offering local residents the opportunity to win significant cash prizes."

Watford Observer: Peter Taylor, mayor of WatfordPeter Taylor, mayor of Watford (Image: Watford Borough Council)

The lottery is expected to provide a long-term opportunity for the community to support local people and organizations in need, especially those struggling during the cost-of living crisis.

Mr Taylor added that the lottery is another way to support Watford’s charities and fund their work.

To be eligible for funding from the Watford Lottery, good causes must be based in the borough and provide a service that directly benefits the town’s residents.

Further information for charities and community groups will be published ahead of the launch.

A Watford Lottery website will be created, providing detailed information on how to play and support local causes.

The decision to launch the lottery was agreed upon by members at a cabinet meeting on Monday, January 16.

Prior to the meeting, a report investigated the potential negative impacts of a local lottery, which included causing or exacerbating gambling.

However, the council said it would set limits on the number of tickets that can be purchased in a given time frame and register with the Gambling Commission.

The report also looked at why residents might be excluded from playing – on grounds linked to religion or if residents do not have a computer or bank account.

The lottery is being supported by Watford Bourgh Council and Gatherwell, a lottery provider dedicated to local authorities.