A PATIENT at St Leonard's Hospice in York has helped to select the first winner of the charity's new weekly prize draw.

Anne Liversidge started the computer to randomly select the winning number in the first prize draw - a new initiative to help raise funds towards the hospice's £1.75 million annual running costs.

Almost 3,000 people have signed up for the prize draw. As well as the £500 first prize there are also five £20 and ten £10 prizes to be won each week. The winner of the first £500 prize was a lucky Bishopthorpe resident.

Each week entrants will have the chance to "buy" unique numbers for the draw, at £1 per number. Players can have as many numbers as they wish. Winners will be sent their prize automatically - there is no need to claim it.

Winning numbers will also be published in the Evening Press, and will be available from St Leonard's Hospice shops in Acomb, Haxby, Pocklington, Scarcroft Road and Tang Hall.

Janet Morley, fundraising manager at St Leonard's, said: "The first of our regular prize draws is a very exciting time for us, and we know that the draw will be a great success.

"We have had a great deal of support for it already from local people, who are keen to help the hospice as a local charity.

"There is still the chance to sign up, and everyone who takes part can be confident that their money goes towards helping St Leonard's in its work of caring for people with life-threatening illnesses."

For more information pick up a leaflet from the hospice shops, the reception at the hospice in Tadcaster Road or by phoning 01904 799225.

Updated: 09:36 Saturday, June 28, 2003