The borough council has hailed the "success" of its new Community Lottery after the first draw saw 1,100 tickets sold.

Local charities are set to benefit from £57,000 in projected revenue by the end of the year, with 60 per cent of the £1 ticket sales going to them, according to the local authority.

The draw happens weekly, with the first one on Saturday (June 24) seeing someone win a £250 voucher.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket for this first draw. You have helped support some of the great local charities here in Watford. I know that they are really grateful.

“The money raised for our Watford Community Fund will also have a big and positive impact on our community, enabling us to support projects that enhance the lives of our residents.”

So far 45 different causes have signed up for the scheme, including Watford Swimming Club, Random Café, and Watford Workshop. 

Watford Observer:

Residents can purchase tickets for £1 and this provides a one in 50 chance of winning different prizes, ranging from the £25,000 jackpot to £1,000, £250, £25, or three free lottery tickets.

One of the charities signed up is the Watford Women’s Centre Plus, which helps those affected by domestic abuse.

Watford Observer:

Fiona Miller, chief executive officer at Watford Women’s Centre Plus, said: “By choosing us as your good cause in the lottery, you can become a catalyst for change.

"Your support holds the power to provide a lifeline to those affected by domestic abuse, empowering them to rebuild their lives and build a future free from violence.

“Your donations can help break the cycle of abuse, offering women the opportunity to reclaim their lives, flourish, and inspire a brighter tomorrow."

Random Café founder Jane Johnson said: “The money raised through this lottery will allow Random Café to save more food from being wasted needlessly in Watford, while allowing us to give it back to the community.

"Additionally, the money will allow us to continue to grow our community garden and to develop projects that support our community further.”