BINGO lovers must keep their eyes on the prize as friendship fever takes hold.

Mecca Bingo in Marina Drive is taking part in a nationwide search to celebrate something that lasts forever – true friendship.

The company’s ‘Bingo Buddy of the Year’ competition aims to recognise and celebrate the thousands of friendships that have been built over the years.

Now is your chance to say thank you to these good buddies.

Mecca Bingo has teamed up with Cadbury to offer its lucky players the chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip, including spending money, to New York or London for them and their mate.

Zoe Evans, club manager at Mecca in Ellesmere Port, said: “Friendships are one of the most valuable things in the world and we want to hear about Ellesmere Port’s true gems.

“So many of our members tell us they have made great friends through bingo that we like to think we are the country’s largest female social club.”

Entering couldn’t be easier. Simply nominate your best friend and explain, in 50 words or less, why they deserve the title of ‘Mecca Bingo Buddy of the Year 2009.’

There’s a great range of prizes on offer. Each club winner and the friend who nominates them will be able to indulge themselves with a delicious Cadbury’s Chocolate hamper and will have the chance to be named as one of seven regional winners, an accolade that also comes with a year’s supply of Cadbury chocolate.

These regional winners will go through to the national final, to be held on Tuesday, March 24, at Mecca Bingo in Wednesbury, West Midlands. A judging panel including Jane McDonald, singer and star of ITV’s Loose Women, will select the national winner.

Nominations must be received by Sunday, January 31. For details, visit www.meccabingo.com