/ 22 September 2008

More than R5m in unclaimed Lotto winnings

More than R5-million in winning Lotto tickets remains unclaimed, national lottery operator Gidani said on Monday.

One Lotto Plus jackpot ticket worth R1,4-million, bought in Gauteng, will expire in a month’s time, Gidani spokesperson Thembi Tulwana said.

She urged Lotto players to check their tickets and verify numbers.

”Lotto, Lotto Plus and SportStake winning tickets are valid for 365 days from the day they are bought and will expire if unclaimed,” said Tulwana.

She said players buy tickets and forget to check and claim. People should safeguard their tickets.

”Players must write their names, contact details and identity numbers on the back of the ticket. This will ensure that only the owner of the ticket can claim,” she said.

Half of the unclaimed money went to the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund and the balance was retained in the Participation Trust Fund, said Tulwana.

Players can check their tickets at any of the National Lottery outlets countrywide or telephone the toll-free helpline on 0800 77 77 77 to see if they have a winning ticket. — Sapa