I've never won anything like this before!

Janet Swift works at the Harold Hill Community Centre and when she received a call from Saint Francis Hospice, she thought it was to replace the charity’s collection box on the members bar - so she was delighted to find out she had won the £1,000 lottery jackpot!

My mum Sheila Bristow was cared for at Saint Francis Hospice in 2006. She had bowel cancer which had spread and sadly it was too late by the time she was diagnosed.

It was definitely the right choice to go to the hospice and it was where mum wanted to be.

The care Mum received on the ward was wonderful. She wasn’t expected to survive more than a few days but she lasted six weeks.

I remember the food was prepared fresh and she loved the soup.

We visited her every day and it made such a difference to know she was being so well cared for when we left.

Since Mum was there 17 years ago, we have known quite a few people who have needed the hospice.

Janet with Physios Christine and Ann, whose work couldn't be done without generous supporters like her

Fundraising in Mum's memory

In the past, I took part in the 10k Star Walk around Romford to raise money for the hospice.

I’m so glad people play the lottery and are doing what they can to help the charity. That’s why I signed up to play the lottery. I have won a small amount in the past but I have never really thought about winning.

When I got the phone call, I thought it was about the collection box we keep on the bar at the Harold Hill Community Centre where I work.

Often, I would phone up for it to be replaced when it is full. I was gobsmacked when I was told I had won £1,000 as I’ve never won anything like this before.