Community groups and charities have welcomed Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s new online lottery, which is the first of its kind within Kent.
The Hive Lotto launched on Friday, with a weekly draw including a possible top prize of £25,000. Anyone claiming all six numbers will see a further £25,000 donated to their chosen worthy cause.
More than 20 organisations gathered at Tonbridge Castle to hear how hundreds of thousands of pounds a year could go to charities across the area.
Speaking at the launch event, Adrian Stanfield said the lottery’s creation was ‘the start of an exciting journey’ that would greatly benefit the community.
He believed the council was only the second local authority in the country to operate an online-based lottery which will see 50p for every £1 lottery ticket sold going directly to lottery players’ nominated causes.
Nicolas Heslop, leader of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, said: “We want this to become a community project that people feel they have ownership of, as we know that groups have found it difficult to fundraise these days.
“We are very glad to provide charities with the platform to raise money, so I believe this is a really good opportunity for community groups.
“The litmus test for this working has been shown by the charities that have already come forward to be part of it.”
The Hive Lotto draw will take place every Saturday, with the first draw on Saturday September 10. Anyone aged 16 or over can take part by registering online at: www.hivelotto.co.uk
