From only a few members 20 years ago, the St Luke’s Hospice lottery is still going strong.

Two of the collectors, Rupert and Val Adams, have been with the lottery since  the early days.

They have the ambition of collecting £1m for St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice in Winsford.

Rupert said: “Twenty years ago, we originally knew of the hospice via someone who needed St Luke’s.

“At the time Val was struggling with agoraphobia and it was suggested that the ‘out and about’ nature of being a lottery collector may help, and we’re pleased to say that this has definitely been the case.

“Being a lottery collector has brought us into contact with all sorts of people, going about their everyday lives in the local neighbourhoods, all supporting St Luke’s.

“We've seen families grow up (it is a little scary how time flies when you remember little children pottering around who are now teenagers driving cars).

“Lots of people have stayed with the lottery since we started our rounds. People look forward to us coming at a certain time on certain days, it’s lovely to have a chat with people and get to know them.”

When asked how they would encourage people to join the lottery, Rupert says: “For less than two pints of milk a week, you can change the lives of people.

“Who knows what the future may bring and whether you or your loved ones will need St Luke’s. £1 a week really does make a difference to the families who need the support of the hospice.

“The lottery is a big part of our lives. We love a challenge so we’ve set a goal to collect £1m for St Luke’s. We aren’t far off from that now.

“Will we stop once we reach £1m? Absolutely not, as long as we are fit and able we will continue to support St Luke’s lottery. We’ve never missed a collection.”

Claire Langston, director of income generation, said: “Val and Rupert are real ambassadors for St Luke’s. They are at the heart of their local communities and touch the lives of hundreds of people every week. Their continued support is very much appreciated by us all.”

If you would like to join the lottery, telephone 01606 553553, email  lottery@stlukes-hospice.co.uk or visit  www.stlukes-hospice.co.uk/lottery .