Lottery elite turn out to aid Severn Hospice

They have scooped millions of pounds between them after their numbers came up.

But this group of National Lottery winners from across Shropshire and the rest of the UK have not forgotten their roots and have been giving something back to the community. For the winners spent the day digging and planting a new entrance garden for patients and guests at the Severn Hospice in Shrewsbury.

Hospice bosses today praised the group for their efforts to help transform the entrance at the site in Bicton Heath - which means it will now be entered into the Britain In Bloom competition.

The group, which took part in the volunteer project on Thursday, included Market Drayton EuroMillions winners Darryl and David Bowden, part of the 33-strong Palethorpes Pie Factory syndicate which won £6,750,278.40 in November 2006.

Also involved were Halesowen couple Cindy and Keith Williams, who were syndicate leaders of the Nicholl Grange group which won £1.9 million back in January 2003.

Kev and Viv Moss, who won £6 million in October 1998, travelled up from Daventry, Northamptonshire, to take part, and Elaine Thompson, who won £2.7 million in 1995, drove up from Lyme Regis.

The lottery winners and staff from Camelot, spent a full day at Severn Hospice clearing an area.

They replaced dead trees, long grass and weeds with new shrubs, flowers and hanging baskets for visitors to appreciate when they walk through the entrance.

Norma Ross, appeals director at the hospice which provides support and care for terminally ill people and those with progressive illnesses, said: "We were delighted that so many lottery winners volunteered to give up their time.

"With their help and hard work we've been able to clear the area and create a welcoming entrance area for our patients and families.

"Indeed with their help we are entering the Britain In Bloom competition."

EuroMillions winner Darryl Bowden, of Market Drayton, said: "I decided to volunteer as facilities like Severn Hospice give so much help and support to people, their families and loved ones.

"I hope our small contribution will have a lasting effect on others and we wish them all the luck in the Britain In Bloom competition."