The Channel Island Christmas Lottery tickets are set to hit shop shelves today – but those playing will notice a difference when it comes to the choices on offer.
The normal lottery ticket still costs £2, and includes entry to the main draw alongside a scratchable ‘instant win’ section.
However, a new solo-scratch card has also been launched for the first time this year.
The £5 ticket is a more traditional scratch card – and doesn't offer entry to the Christmas lottery draw.
Pictured: William Cann (foreground) and Jack Hobbs (background) from Guernsey Post's lottery team.
Jon Taylor – the Senior Lottery Officer for the States of Guernsey who also oversees the Channel Islands Christmas Lottery across Jersey – said there is “plenty of chances to win whichever game you prefer to play”.
“Most importantly, purchasing tickets for either game is a fantastic way to support funding towards essential charities and worthy causes across the Channel Islands,” he added.
Proceeds from the Channel Islands Christmas Lottery are given to charities across both islands by the Jersey Association of Charities and the Social Investment Fund in Guernsey.
Last year the Christmas Lottery raised £2.5 million for good causes, but it has also come under increasing levels of criticism in recent years due to concerns over gambling.
Mr Taylor was keen to emphasise that the game should be played with fun at the heart, and players should stop when the time was right for them.
“Ultimately, we want people to spend a proportionate amount on tickets and be responsible players," he said.
“For most people, playing the Christmas lottery games is fun and entertaining, however for a small percentage of people playing can become a problem.
“Responsible play is all about being informed, having fun and knowing your limit.”
The 2024 Christmas Lottery draw will take place in Guernsey this year, with the winning numbers announced live on Thursday 19 December from 18:00.
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Future of Lottery up for discussion
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