By Martin Morgan

Published at 15:55, Wednesday, 19 January 2011

WHITEHAVEN are beefing up their Pride of Five lottery in a bid to attract hundreds of new members.

It could be yours: Phil Coyles (left) from Brooks, hands over the prize television to Paul Goodwin and Dave Farrell, from Whitehaven’s Pride of Five

The lottery has been a significant fund-raiser for the club since its launch in 2003 and at its height boasted over 3,000 members. But it has dipped in recent years and a major effort is under way to breath fresh life in to the scheme.

In addition to the five weekly prizes of £100 and an annual £10,000 jackpot, extra draws are planned.

The first will take place next month, at half-time in Haven’s Northern Rail Cup opener against Workington Town, when a 42 ins TV will be up for grabs, thanks to the generous backing of Brooks.

“We’ve already got several dozen new members, but that’s just for starters,” said Dave Farrell, lottery administrator. “We are looking for hundreds and are going door-to-door.

“I’d like to thank existing members for sticking with the draw during uncertain times, and they can rest assured that the lottery is continuing, and we are looking to make it a success, for its members and the club.

“The lottery is the club’s one source of income all through the year and our task has been to ensure it’s functioning properly – which it is – vibrant and a real cornerstone of the club’s resurgence.”

Club officials will also be recruiting in Whitehaven’s Tesco store and Co-op branches in Egremont and Cleator Moor.

To be included in the first special draw, phone the club office on 328088 or e-mail lottery@whitehavenrl.co.uk.

Over 100 fans turned out for Haven’s launch night at the Recre on Friday to meet players, club officials and sponsors.

The Whitehaven Supporters Trust, Trust In Haven, are organising away travel to this season’s games, starting with Sunday’s friendly at Oldham. For further details or to book contact Lee on 078434 25454 or Andrew on 07764 935678.

Tickets at £15 are now available for skipper Spencer Miller’s opening testimonial event. Purchase from Billy Rudd on 590952 or Frenchy on 61034.

Guest speakers at the Marchon Club event on Saturday, March 12, are St Helens pair Jon Wilkin and Paul Wellens.

This week’s Pride of Five £100 winners are: E Casson, M Chambers, S Irvine, A Haddow and A Bramley, all from Whitehaven.

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk