MORE than £600 has now been given away in prize money in the new EX20 lottery which started this summer.

The number of contestants is increasing weekly and now stands at 371 — Cllr Christine Marsh, mayor of Okehampton, wants to see lots more people joining in the fun.

Cllr Marsh said: 'I want the villages to realise they are included in this — they're all in the EX20 area, it's not purely an Okehampton lottery.'

Word about the new lottery is spreading — this week Cllr Marsh had a phone call from the mayor of Petersfield, who wanted to know more about it.

'Someone had gone back from their holiday and told him about it,' she said.

'I would like to thank everyone who is supporting this community lottery.

'Since our first draw we have given a total of more than £600 in prize money.

'I know it's not mega-bucks, but it is a start and the more that join, the more we will be able to give in prizes and donations.'

The first groups to benefit were South Zeal and Okehampton Scouts, who received £100 each.

The next bonus draw will be on carnival day, when army cadets will be selling tickets — they are hoping to raise money for a new standard.

Following bonus draws will be held on bonfire night and at Edwardian Evening.

Cllr Marsh would like to hear from any community groups in the EX20 area who are raising money for particular projects.

'Please let us know — we will be able to help you and in return you will be helping us,' she said.

This week's top prize winner was Kathleen Patheyjohns of Okehampton, who won £74.20.

The second prize winner was Mrs A Sumner, of Okehampton, winning £37.10 — two prizes of £9.28 went to Mrs J King of Jacobstowe and Alison Lee of Okehampton.