NINE neighbours have scooped £25,000 each after their postcode came up in the People’s Lottery.

The lucky lot live in Suffolk Avenue, in West Mersea, and were visited this morning after CO5 8ER was drawn.

Retiree Patricia Welham was with husband, John, when she discovered how much she had won.

She said: “This is just marvellous and has come at such a great time as we’re planning on building a conservatory so now that’s completely taken care of.

“John is also in the middle of getting a new boat and this means we can get one that is accessible for us both and suits our needs.

“I’m sure our two daughters and three grandchildren will be in for a few treats too.”

But the luck didn’t end there for the 74-year-old, who was also handed the keys to a brand new BMW.

She added: “This is just the cherry on top of everything – it’s been the best surprise ever.”

Susan Parkinson was joined by husband Richard. and had no idea what to expect when the People’s Postcode Lottery team appeared on the street.

The 68-year-old said: “It’s going to take a while to sink in, that’s for sure.

“We’ve already started organising a celebration with our neighbours; someone’s making some sausage rolls and carrot cake and someone else is organising the champagne so it’s really bringing us all together.”

Anthony Weekes, 78, was almost lost for words when he pulled his cheque out the golden envelope.

He said: “I never thought it was going to be as good as this. This certainly gives me a lot to look forward to now.”

Joyous Judith Pearce, 46, added: “This is just beyond comprehension – I’m over the moon.

“Winning with my neighbours is spectacular and I don’t think any of us knew that we all played so it’s been lovely to share the surprise together.”

Also among the winners were Daiva Urbantiene, 45, and Barry Swiggs, 72, who were equally delighted at scooping the five figure sum.

The remaining three winners weren’t available to collect their cheques, but the prize will be paid into their bank account.

Jeff Brazier People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador, said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many people on one street in West Mersea winning.

“It sounds like there’s going to be celebrations aplenty over on Suffolk Avenue and I couldn’t be more thrilled.”

Some 32 per cent from every ticket going to charity and players have now raised £330 million for over 4,000 good causes across Great Britain and internationally.

For more information or to play the People’s Postcode Lottery, go to www.postcodelottery.co.uk.