The Mayor of Richmond has given his support to the launch of a new online lottery in the Borough called Get Lucky Local which aims to help support community arts and sports projects and charities which have suffered during the pandemic.

Cllr Geoff Acton told an audience at The Exchange in Twickenham last night: "In these challenging times we are very pleased to see Get Lucky Local lottery coming to our Borough and hope all our many charities will take advantage of this opportunity to raise additional funds that are sorely needed now."

He and his wife Eileen were amongst the fifty guests who attended the launch of the new online community lottery with Twickenham MP Munira Wilson, the Chief Executive officer of The Rugby Football Union, Bill Sweeney and top rugby union referee Wayne Barnes.

The organisers of the event – the first at The Exchange since lockdown in March – imposed stringent safety measures to ensure social distancing was maintained in the seating arrangements and entry and exits in the theatre.

Guests were signed in and asked for their contact details to support the track and trace system and asked to wear their face coverings during the presentations unless they were drinking or asking questions.

Last night's launch was to introduce the new lottery to Good Causes in the Borough and encourage them to sign up so that their organisations can benefit directly from the lottery. Players can choose where they want their money to go.

Representatives from the Victoria Foundation, Hampton Hill Cricket Club, Ruils, Teddington Theatre Club, Hearts of Teddlothian, Crossroads Care, Hampton Wick Royal Cricket Club, were amongst those attending as well as the Richmond Chamber of Commerce.Ten organisations have already signed up.

Munira Wilson said:"We are blessed with hundreds of community groups and sports clubs right across the borough which contribute so much to the quality of life in Richmond.

"Many struggle to get by and the coronavirus crisis has made their need even more acute. That's why I'm delighted to support Get Lucky Local which will enable people to support these good causes and have some fun at the same time.

"I am grateful to all those involved who have lent their time and expertise to establish this local lottery and wish them every success. I have no doubt that Get Lucky Local will do extremely well."

Bill Sweeney told the audience: "Every sector of sport from the very highest level down to community and grass roots has been impacted by the pandemic. Any local initiative which can help restore funds for charities, sports projects and other community-based groups like a local lottery should be supported."

Co-founder of Get Lucky Local, Stuart Higgins said: "The big difference between Get Lucky Local and other lotteries is that it is truly local and community causes, project and charities will directly benefit because the players can simply choose the organisation they want to benefit. We really hope Get Lucky will make a difference in the community."

Tickets will costs £1 in the weekly draw with a jackpot of £25,000 and 50p in every pound will go to Good Causes and 10p to a central fund to support other projects.

The remainder will be split to support prize money, operational costs and VAT.

Tickets will go on sale on October 6th and the first draw will take place on November 14th.

You can find out more HERE